Ultrasound scan
Typical UK price: £150–£380
What is ultrasound scan?
An ultrasound scan uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of your pet's internal organs. It is particularly useful for examining the abdominal organs (liver, kidneys, spleen, bladder, intestines, lymph nodes) and the heart (echocardiography). Most pets tolerate abdominal ultrasound awake with gentle restraint; cardiac ultrasound is generally non-invasive and stress-free.
Why do prices vary between vets?
- Type of scan — abdominal ultrasound, cardiac ultrasound, and pregnancy scanning have different pricing
- Specialist vs general practice — a cardiac specialist (cardiologist) charges significantly more than a general vet performing abdominal scanning
- Need for sedation — if your pet is too anxious or painful for conscious scanning, sedation adds to the cost
- Practice location — equipment investment and overhead costs vary across the UK
Frequently asked questions
Does my pet need to be shaved for an ultrasound?
Yes — the coat needs to be clipped in the area being scanned to allow proper contact between the probe and skin. Gel is applied to improve sound wave conduction. The clipped area will grow back within a few weeks.
What conditions can ultrasound detect?
Ultrasound is used to assess organ size and structure, detect masses or cysts, identify bladder stones, examine the bowel wall, assess lymph nodes, guide biopsy needles, diagnose heart disease, and confirm pregnancy. It provides information that X-rays cannot and is often used alongside them.
Can ultrasound be used for pregnancy diagnosis in rabbits?
Yes — ultrasound is the preferred method for diagnosing pregnancy in rabbits and can detect foetuses as early as day 7–8 post-mating. It is non-invasive and safe for both doe and kits.
CMA Veterinary Market Investigation Order
From September 2026, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) requires all UK vet practices to publish prices for this procedure on their website. VetPricelist aggregates these published prices so you can compare them in one place.