Paw X-rays are an indispensable tool in modern veterinary diagnostics, allowing for quick and accurate detection of musculoskeletal problems in our pets. This safe and painless procedure provides veterinarians with detailed information about the condition of bones, joints, and soft tissues. Timely X-ray examination helps to establish a correct diagnosis and prescribe effective treatment.
When is an X-ray necessary?
There are many reasons why a veterinarian might recommend paw X-rays for your cat or dog. Most often, the examination is performed for injuries or signs of musculoskeletal diseases. It’s important to pay attention to any changes in your pet’s behavior related to their movement.
Indications for paw X-rays include:
Lameness or refusal to put weight on a paw.
Swelling or edema in the joint and limb areas.
Pain upon touching the paw.
Changes in the shape or position of the limb.
Suspected fractures, dislocations, or hairline cracks.
Creaking or clicking sounds in the joints during movement.
Monitoring the progression or recovery of certain diseases (e.g., arthritis).
Scheduled examination before limb surgeries.
Seeking veterinary attention promptly when these symptoms appear will help avoid complications and significantly accelerate the recovery process.
How is the procedure performed?
A paw X-ray procedure typically takes only a few minutes. In most cases, it doesn’t require special preparation. The animal is positioned on a special table to obtain clear images. The X-ray machine takes images, which are immediately displayed on a computer monitor.
In some situations, such as severe pain, aggressive behavior, or the need for images in complex projections, light sedation may be required. This allows the examination to be performed safely for the animal and clinic staff, and to obtain the highest quality images. At our clinic in Tallinn, Haabersti Loomakliinik, we always strive to minimize stress for the pet during any procedure. We use modern equipment that allows for accurate images with a minimal radiation dose. Our clinic specialists will provide you with detailed information about the cost of the examination and prepare everything necessary for the procedure.
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.