One of the top concerns that most people have when it comes to their pets is the cost of pet care, especially unexpected expenses. If your cat was involved in some kind of an accident or has been sick and needs diagnostics, your veterinarian may recommend an x-ray, also called a radiograph.
This diagnostic test allows your vet to view the solid structures inside of your cat, like their bones. Based on the color shading in an x-ray, your vet will also be able to get an idea of whether your cat has a soft tissue problem, like heart enlargement or a tumor. X-rays are a fantastic diagnostic tool that can be performed at most vet clinics, allowing your vet to evaluate what may be going on with your cat to determine treatment or further testing and referrals. But what does an x-ray cost for a cat? Cat x-rays can cost anywhere from $75 to $350, depending on the vet and what’s being x-rayed. Keep reading to see what you can expect:
What is the Cost of a Cat X-Ray?
How much your cat’s x-rays will cost depends on the type of x-ray your cat needs, how many they need, and the cost of living in your area, to name a few factors. X-rays of the mouth and individual limbs typically range from $75–150, while x-rays of the chest, abdomen, or chest and abdomen together typically range from $100–250. Whole-body x-rays include the chest, abdomen, limbs, neck, and head and can range from $100–350.
What Factors Impact the Cost of an X-Ray?
Aside from the number and type of x-rays and cost of living in your area, there are other factors that will impact the cost of x-rays for your cat. If a specialist is performing the x-rays, you should expect to spend more. Veterinary specialists and their staff are trained to perform x-rays on delicate areas and get a clear picture of the area. Some specialists that may need to perform x-rays on your cat include neurosurgeons, veterinary dentists, and orthopedists.
Oftentimes, x-rays are priced at a lower rate for additional x-rays. This means that you may spend $100 on your cat’s first x-ray, but if the veterinarian needs two x-rays, then the second picture may only cost you $50. If your cat is uncooperative for the x-ray, you are unlikely to be charged for failed pictures and will likely only be charged for x-rays that turn out correctly.
What Other Costs Should I Expect?
It’s important to remember that you will likely have additional expenses associated with your cat’s vet visit. An office visit fee will usually apply, which can cost between $40–150 at most clinics, but if you’re at an emergency veterinarian, then you may have a higher office visit fee.
Also, keep in mind that an x-ray is a diagnostic test, not a treatment. This means that if your vet finds that there is something wrong with your cat, then additional expenses will apply. This can be anything from antibiotics to treat pneumonia to emergency surgery to remove an intestinal obstruction, so your treatment expenses could range anywhere from a few dollars to thousands of dollars.
In Conclusion
X-rays are a great diagnostic tool that can help your vet get a view of what’s happening inside your cat’s body without doing more invasive procedures, like exploratory surgeries. It also allows them to see what’s happening with your cat’s internal organs, from cancer to enlarged organs. They may be a little on the pricey side, depending on the type and number of x-rays your cat needs and who is doing them, but they are well worth the investment when it comes to the health and wellbeing of your cat.
Featured Image Credit: PRESSLAB, Shutterstock
