Hospitalization & Imaging

In some instances, we may recommend hospitalization for your cat. Our hospital is equipped with a number of monitoring equipment and services. The following is a short list of services and equipment that may be recommended:

IV (intravenous) Fluids

Having direct access to a vein allows continuous fluid supportive care. An IV catheter also allows our doctors to administer many medications (i.e. antibiotics, pain medications) directly into the vein. IV catheters are also placed in all patients undergoing surgery.

In-House Laboratory

Our in-house laboratory allows our doctors to get results fast when time is of the essence. We are able to obtain results for common blood and urine tests and provide our patients with appropriate monitoring while they are hospitalized.

Digital Radiographs (X-rays)

We are able to take and interpret digital x-rays with you in the exam room.

In-House Pharmacy

Our in-house pharmacy provides the necessary medications to treat your cat, especially when they suddenly become unwell.

Blood Pressure

Since your cat is away from home, we strive to provide your cat with a comfortable environment during their stay with us. We understand that these are stressful times for both you and your cat. Each of our patients is given a comfortable bed to relax in our quiet, calm environment. You are encouraged to bring your cat’s favorite toy, dish, or blanket to make them feel as comfortable as possible. We encourage you to visit as well and our doctors will contact you daily about the status of your cat. Please do not hesitate to contact us for an update!

Digital Radiographs (X-Rays)

Digital radiographs allow our doctors to view internal structures of your cat and this is an important component of a diagnostic work-up. Often times we like couple a comprehensive blood panel with some images to help fully evaluate a body system that in question. We will discuss each radiograph with you and point out the normal anatomy and any abnormalities that are present. Here is a brief description of the most common images we take:

Abdominal (belly) Radiographs

These images aid our doctors in evaluating your cat’s internal organs (i.e. liver, digestive tract [stomach, intestine, colon], kidneys, spleen, bladder). With this x-ray, each organ is evaluated for size, shape, location, relationships to other organs, and the presence of any abnormalities or disease.

Thoracic (chest) Radiographs

These images aid our doctors in evaluating your cat’s heart, lungs, blood vessels, ribs, and spine for size, shape, location, relationships to other organs, and the presence of any abnormalities or disease.

Head

These x-rays help evaluate structures in the head such as the sinuses, bulla, inner ear, orbit and mouth.

Arthritis Radiographs

These images focus on the most common locations for arthritis in our aging patients (elbows, lower spine, hips and knees).