Pet Endoscopy For Cats & Dogs
Pet endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine the internal organs and structures of cats and dogs, particularly the gastrointestinal tract.
This technique involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera and light into the pet's body, allowing our veterinarians to visually inspect, diagnose, and sometimes treat conditions without the need for major surgery.
Endoscopy is often used to investigate symptoms such as chronic vomiting, diarrhoea, or unexplained weight loss, and it can also be employed to retrieve foreign objects or take biopsy samples.
When would a pet endoscopy be requested?
Persistent gastrointestinal symptoms
To diagnose underlying issues associated with vomiting, diarrhoea, or unexplained weight loss.
Foreign bodies
To locate and potentially retrieve a foreign object from the gastrointestinal tract without invasive surgery.
Unexplained health issues
To provide a direct view of internal structures if your pet is suffering from symptoms difficult to diagnose, such as recurrent coughing and difficulty swallowing.
Biopsy
To take samples for suspected conditions like cancer, inflammatory disease, or chronic infections.
What’s involved in a pet endoscopy?
Anaesthesia
Your pet will be placed under general anaesthesia to ensure they remain still and comfortable throughout the procedure. This involves an injection and possibly intubation to manage their airway.
1
Insertion of the endoscope
A flexible tube with a camera and light, called an endoscope, is carefully inserted into the area of interest. For gastrointestinal issues, the endoscope is usually passed through the mouth into the oesophagus, stomach, and intestines, or it may be inserted through the rectum.
2
Examination and sample collection
Our veterinarian uses the camera to visually inspect the internal organs and structures in real time, looking for abnormalities such as inflammation, ulcers, or tumours. If needed, small tools can be passed through the endoscope to collect tissue samples (biopsies) or remove foreign objects.
3
Recovery
Once the examination is complete, the endoscope is gently removed, and your pet is monitored as they wake up from anaesthesia. Recovery is usually quick, and most pets can go home the same day, though they may be a bit groggy for a few hours.
4
Results and follow-up
Our veterinarian will discuss the findings with you, including any abnormalities observed and the results of any biopsies or samples taken. They will also provide recommendations for further treatment or diagnostic steps based on the endoscopy results.
5
How long does pet endoscopy take?
Pet endoscopy typically lasts between 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on factors such as the type of endoscopy, the complexity of the case, and your pet’s condition.
Procedures like gastroscopy or colonoscopy generally take around 30 minutes, while more involved procedures like bronchoscopy may take longer.
Additional time is also needed for pre-procedure preparation, anaesthesia, and post-procedure recovery and monitoring.
Types of pet endoscopy
Gastroscopy
Examines the oesophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine. It’s useful for diagnosing issues like ulcers, tumours, or foreign bodies.
Rhinoscopy
Examines the nasal passages and sinuses. It is particularly useful for diagnosing nasal tumours, foreign bodies, or chronic sinus infections.
Colonoscopy
Focuses on the lower part of the gastrointestinal tract, including the large intestine and rectum. It helps diagnose conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, tumours, or polyps.
Cystoscopy
Used to inspect the bladder and urethra, aiding in the diagnosis of urinary tract issues such as stones, tumours, or infections.
Bronchoscopy
Investigates the airways and lungs, allowing for the examination of the trachea, bronchi, and sometimes the lungs themselves. It's used for diagnosing respiratory issues like tumours, foreign bodies, or chronic inflammation.
Find out more
What is the recovery for an endoscopy?
After an endoscopy, pets generally recover relatively quickly, often within a few hours to a day.
They are monitored closely as they wake up from anaesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and stable.
Common side effects include:
Mild grogginess
Temporary loss of appetite
Nausea or diarrhoea
Discomfort at the site of the endoscope insertion
Our veterinarian team will provide specific aftercare instructions, including dietary recommendations and any signs to watch for, to help ensure a smooth recovery.
Costs for treatment
The cost of a pet endoscopy can vary based on the procedure's complexity and the type of endoscopy.
You can expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,500 for a pet endoscopy. This includes the procedure itself, anaesthesia, and any necessary follow-up care.
For a more precise quote, please get in touch.
Contact us for more information on our endoscopy services.
Endoscopy is a valuable tool for diagnosing and treating internal issues in dogs and cats. Our veterinary team is here to provide expert care and detailed insights, ensuring your pet receives precise treatment for improved health and comfort.
