Ultrasound examination

Our clinic is equipped with a modern, state-of-the-art Esaote ultrasound machine, which - with its various probes and advanced functions - is suitable for the most up-to-date abdominal and cardiological examinations. The examinations are primarily performed by Dr. Lívia Horváth; please make an appointment with her.

Ultrasound examination in dogs and cats provides important support in assessing the shape, size, and structure of abdominal organs, as well as evaluating heart function. It can also reveal pathological changes that might otherwise remain hidden.

In many cases, by the time a disease causes noticeable symptoms, it may already be in an advanced stage, significantly worsening the prognosis. When diagnosed early, most diseases can be cured or managed with medication, and further deterioration can be stopped or slowed down. Therefore, screening examinations are also recommended for healthy or symptom-free dogs and cats - especially in older age.

The most common abnormalities detected during ultrasound examinations in dogs and cats include:

The most common abnormalities encountered during ultrasound examinations in dogs and cats include:
  • undescended testicle, testicular tumor, prostate enlargement

  • cystitis, sediment, or urinary stones in the bladder

  • liver and kidney abnormalities

  • pyometra

  • ovarian cysts and tumors

  • intestinal obstruction

  • fluid accumulations in the abdominal and thoracic cavities, as well as in the pericardium

  • deposits on the heart valves

  • dilation of the heart chambers and thickening of the heart wall

  • heartworms in the heart chambers

  • narrowing of the aorta and the pulmonary artery

  • heart failure

Ultrasound diagnostics

Ultrasound imaging alone often does not provide a precise diagnosis; however, with the help of ultrasound, cytological or biopsy samples can be taken from the affected organ. The pathological examination of these samples usually allows for an accurate determination of the nature of the lesion.

This non-invasive method, which has no harmful effects on the body, also plays an important role in pregnancy diagnostics. It enables early detection of an unwanted pregnancy, or confirmation of pregnancy in breeding females, as well as estimation of the age and number of fetuses.

Possible developmental abnormalities can also be diagnosed in time during ultrasound examinations of pregnant cats and dogs. The procedure is painless, has no harmful effects on the animal’s body, and often provides immediate and definitive diagnostic results. In most cases, sedation or calming of the animal is not required. Its only “drawback” is that shaving the hair in the examined area may be necessary, as air trapped between the ultrasound probe and the animal’s skin can interfere with imaging and thus affect diagnostic accuracy.

Examinations are available by prior appointment.