Ultrasound examination

Our clinic is equipped with a modern, state-of-the-art Esaote ultrasound machine, which - thanks to its advanced probes and wide range of functions - is suitable for the most up-to-date abdominal and cardiac examinations. At Böszi-Vet, our cardiac ultrasound examinations can now be complemented with blood pressure measurement and ECG testing. These examinations are primarily performed by Dr. Lívia Horváth; please book an appointment with her.

Ultrasound examination in cats and dogs provides valuable support in assessing the shape, size, and structure of abdominal organs, as well as evaluating heart function. It can also help detect abnormalities that might otherwise remain hidden.

In many cases, by the time a disease produces noticeable symptoms, it may already be in an advanced stage, significantly worsening the prognosis. When diagnosed early, many conditions can be treated or managed with medication, and disease progression can be slowed or prevented. For this reason, we also recommend screening examinations for healthy, symptom-free dogs and cats—especially in older animals.

Cardiac arrhythmias may occur in pets in association with certain heart diseases; these can be diagnosed through ECG examination. Based on the results, appropriate anti-arrhythmic treatment can be initiated.

Blood pressure measurement is not only important for cardiac patients. Animals suffering from kidney disease or hyperthyroidism (most commonly cats) may also develop high blood pressure, which requires treatment to prevent or slow further damage.

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

  • bladder inflammation, sediment, or urinary stones in the bladder

  • abnormalities of the liver and kidneys

  • pyometra

  • ovarian cysts and tumors

  • intestinal obstruction

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

  • deposits on the heart valves

  • enlargement of the heart chambers and thickening of the heart walls

  • heartworms in the chambers of the heart

  • narrowing of the aorta and pulmonary artery

  • heart failure

Ultrasound diagnostics

Ultrasound imaging alone often does not provide a definitive diagnosis. However, with the guidance of ultrasound, we can obtain cytological or biopsy samples from the affected organ, and pathological examination of these samples usually allows for an accurate diagnosis.

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 number and age of the fetuses.

Potential developmental abnormalities can also be detected early during ultrasound examinations of pregnant cats and dogs. The procedure is painless and safe for the animal, often providing immediate and conclusive diagnostic results. In most cases, sedation or anesthesia is not required. The only drawback is that the fur in the examined area may need to be clipped, as air trapped between the probe and the skin can interfere with image quality and diagnostic accuracy.

Appointments for examinations can be made in advance.