Advanced ultrasound imaging to help diagnose illness, monitor internal health and guide treatment for your pet.
Veterinary Ultrasound at Vets of Melbourne
When your pet is unwell, finding answers quickly is essential. Veterinary ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive imaging technique that allows our veterinarians to examine internal organs and soft tissues in real time, helping us diagnose a wide range of medical conditions.
At Vets of Melbourne, we use advanced ultrasound technology to investigate abdominal, urinary, reproductive and other internal health concerns in dogs, cats and selected small animals. Ultrasound provides valuable information that helps us develop the most appropriate treatment plan for your pet.
Why Might My Pet Need an Ultrasound?
Your veterinarian may recommend an ultrasound if your pet is showing signs of illness or if further investigation is needed after a physical examination or blood tests.
An ultrasound may help investigate:
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Unexplained weight loss
- Abdominal pain
- Changes in appetite
- Urinary problems
- Pregnancy assessment
- Lumps or internal masses
- Liver, kidney or bladder disease
- Heart or abdominal abnormalities
Because ultrasound provides real-time images, it allows us to evaluate many organs without the need for exploratory surgery.
Is an Ultrasound Safe?
Yes. Ultrasound is a safe, painless and non-invasive diagnostic procedure that uses sound waves rather than radiation to create images of internal structures.
Because it does not involve radiation, ultrasound can often be repeated when ongoing monitoring is required.
Why Choose Vets of Melbourne for Veterinary Ultrasound?
At Vets of Melbourne, we combine modern diagnostic technology with compassionate veterinary care to help identify health concerns as early as possible.
Whether your pet requires an ultrasound to investigate illness, monitor an existing condition or support a treatment plan, our experienced team is committed to providing clear communication and personalised care throughout the process.
Book an appointment with Vets of Melbourne to discuss whether a veterinary ultrasound is the right diagnostic test for your pet.
What Happens During an Ultrasound?
Most ultrasound examinations are straightforward and well tolerated by pets.
Depending on the area being examined, your pet may have a small area of fur clipped to improve image quality. Ultrasound gel is then applied, and a handheld probe is gently moved across the skin to capture detailed images of the internal organs.
Some pets remain relaxed throughout the examination, while others may require light sedation to help them stay comfortable and still.
We’ll explain the procedure beforehand and answer any questions you may have.
What Can an Ultrasound Detect?
Ultrasound is a valuable diagnostic tool that can help assess many parts of your pet’s body.
It may be used to evaluate:
- Liver and gallbladder
- Kidneys
- Bladder
- Spleen
- Stomach and intestines
- Pancreas
- Reproductive organs
- Internal masses or fluid
- Pregnancy development
Ultrasound findings are often combined with blood tests, X-rays and physical examinations to build a complete picture of your pet’s health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my pet need to be sedated for an ultrasound?
Not always. Many pets remain calm during the procedure. If your pet is anxious or needs to remain very still, your veterinarian may recommend light sedation.
Does my pet need to fast before an ultrasound?
Depending on the reason for the examination, fasting may be recommended to improve image quality. We’ll provide specific instructions before your appointment.
How long does an ultrasound take?
Most ultrasound examinations take between 30 and 60 minutes, although this can vary depending on the area being examined and the complexity of your pet’s condition.
Is an ultrasound better than an X-ray?
Ultrasound and X-rays provide different types of information and are often used together. X-rays are ideal for assessing bones and some chest conditions, while ultrasound provides detailed images of soft tissues and internal organs.
When will I receive the results?
In many cases, your veterinarian can discuss the findings shortly after the examination. If additional interpretation is required, we’ll explain the next steps and contact you as soon as the results are available.