Cat X-Rays at Kitten to Cat
Your cat’s health depends on an accurate diagnosis.
Advanced X-ray technology allows us to identify injuries, illnesses, and internal conditions quickly and clearly.
At Kitten to Cat, a specialist veterinary cat clinic in Richmond, we offer comprehensive cat X-rays, from detecting broken bones and arthritis to identifying swallowed objects or checking lung health.
What are Cat X-Rays?
Cat X-rays, also known as radiography, are a safe and non-invasive diagnostic tool that allows our veterinary team at Kitten to Cat to see inside your cat’s body without surgery.
Using low levels of radiation, X-rays create detailed images of your cat’s bones, organs, and tissues, helping us identify health issues that aren’t visible from the outside.
Whether we’re checking for a fractured bone, investigating breathing difficulties, or looking for a swallowed object, X-rays provide crucial information quickly and accurately.
Our modern digital X-ray system produces high-quality images within minutes, meaning we can diagnose your cat’s condition and discuss treatment options with you during the same visit.
How do Cat X-Rays Work?
Cat X-rays use safe, low levels of radiation to take pictures of what’s happening inside your cat’s body. Dense structures like bones show up white, while softer tissues appear in shades of grey, helping us spot problems that aren’t visible from the outside.
The process is quick and painless. Your cat will be gently positioned on our X-ray table for a few moments while we capture the images we need. Most cats stay calm throughout, though we may use mild sedation if your cat is anxious or uncomfortable.
X-rays are often combined with ultrasound or our in-house laboratory testing to provide fast and accurate diagnoses. When more advanced imaging is needed, this is available at our sister practices with hospitalisation facilities at our Elizabeth Street hospital.
When a Cat Pet Would Need an X-Ray
Your pet may need an X-ray for various health concerns that require us to see what’s happening beneath the surface. Common reasons include:
- Assessing limping, leg pain, or mobility issues to identify fractures, joint disease, or arthritic changes
- Examining respiratory concerns such as persistent coughing, labored breathing, or chest infections
- Locating foreign objects your cat may have swallowed, like string, fabric, or small toys that could cause intestinal blockages
- Assessing pregnancy or pre-surgical health checks
- Investigating abdominal discomfort, digestive issues, or detecting bladder stones and organ abnormalities
- Evaluating dental problems affecting the jaw and tooth roots below the gumline
- Screening for tumors, masses, or unusual growths
- Monitoring ongoing health conditions or conducting pre-operative assessments
When your cat displays signs of discomfort, injury, or illness, X-ray imaging gives us the diagnostic information needed to provide appropriate treatment.
Why Choose Kitten to Cat for X-Rays?
- Conveniently located in Richmond and easily accessible for local cat owners
- Cat-only veterinary practice – no dogs, meaning a calmer, quieter environment without stressful sounds or smells
- Experienced feline veterinary team using advanced digital X-ray technology for accurate diagnostics
- Fast, stress-free imaging process with results available during your visit
- Compassionate care that prioritises your cat’s comfort throughout the procedure
- Clear explanations of findings and treatment options tailored to your cat’s needs
- Our team is available 24 hours a day, and all of these services receive a 10% discount for pets enrolled in our popular VIP healthcare plan
Advanced X-ray technology allows us to diagnose feline health issues accurately and promptly, ensuring your cat receives the best possible care.
Cat X-Ray FAQs
How long does a pet X-ray take?
The actual X-ray process typically takes just a few minutes. Including preparation and positioning, most appointments are completed within 15-20 minutes, though this may vary depending on your pet’s cooperation and the complexity of the imaging required.
What can a cat X-ray detect?
Cat X-rays provide clear images of your cat’s skeletal structure, internal organs, and soft tissues. They’re excellent for identifying broken bones, joint disease, respiratory conditions, foreign bodies your cat has ingested, urinary stones, abnormal growths, tooth root problems, and various other conditions that physical examination alone cannot detect.
Will my cat need sedation for an X-ray?
It depends on your cat’s temperament and the area being examined. Many cats tolerate X-rays well without any sedation at Kitten to Cat. However, if your cat is particularly stressed, uncomfortable, or we need very specific positioning for accurate imaging, we may suggest light sedation to keep them relaxed and ensure quality results.
When will I know the X-ray results?
Because we use modern digital imaging at our Richmond clinic, X-ray images are available almost immediately. We’ll examine them with you during your visit, explaining what we’ve found and discussing the best course of action for your cat’s treatment.
Can I have copies of my cat's X-rays?
Of course. We’re happy to provide digital or physical copies of your cat’s X-ray images. Simply ask our team and we’ll arrange this for you, whether for your own records or to share with a specialist veterinarian.
How much time does a cat X-ray appointment take?
The X-ray itself only takes a few moments. With positioning and preparation included, most appointments at Kitten to Cat are finished within 15-20 minutes, though timing can vary based on your cat’s comfort level and the specific images we need to capture.
