X-rays of rodents and small mammals

X-ray in rodents such as mice, hamsters or rats refers to the use of transmission radiography in the medical diagnosis of these animals. As with X-rays in dogs and cats, the X-ray unit uses X-radiation to obtain images of the internal structures of the rodent’s body.

X-ray examinations in rodents are often carried out to diagnose a range of conditions, such as bone fractures, degenerative joint changes, assessment of the respiratory system and the presence of stones in the urinary tract. The images obtained during a rodent X-ray allow the veterinarian to identify possible health problems and draw up an appropriate treatment plan.

When taking X-rays of rodents it is important to observe appropriate safety precautions, both for the animals and for the medical staff. Rodents may be held in special positioning devices or gently restrained in order to minimise the risk of an accident during the examination.

The veterinarian who performs the rodent X-ray analyses the images obtained and interprets the results in order to make a diagnosis. X-ray is one of many diagnostic tools available that help veterinarians care for rodents and keep them in good health.