Pet Gastroscopy
Uncovering The Cause Of Your Pet’s Discomfort
A pet gastroscopy is a type of endoscopy where the camera on a flexible tube is used to examine an animal’s esophagus, stomach and duodenum without the need for surgery. It’s a less invasive way to investigate why your pet may be vomiting, having diarrhea, experiencing weight loss or having difficulty swallowing, and can help us know how to treat the problem.
Plus One Vet is equipped to perform pet gastroscopy procedures so you don’t have to make a separate appointment elsewhere. If your pet has been referred for one or you’re concerned about your pet, contact our Sunnybank office today.
About Dog Gastroscopy Procedures
If your dog has persistent vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite or other on-going tummy problems, it’s always a good idea to get them to the vet. When we’re not 100% certain what may be the cause, we may recommend a dog gastroscopy to get a live view of the inside their gastrointestinal system, which isn’t as scary as it sounds. This is what you need to know.
Dog Hematemesis, Pyloric Stenosis & Other Conditions Diagnosed With Gastroscopy
There are a number of conditions we can diagnose via a gastroscopy, including:
- Hematemesis, a potential cause of dogs vomiting blood.
- Pyloric stenosis, which is when a dog’s muscular valve between their stomach and small intestine is narrow, causing them gastrointestinal upset.
- Chronic gastritis, referring to an inflamed stomach.
- Foreign bodies in the stomach.
- Neoplasia, the name for a tumor in the stomach.
- Other obstructions.
With this important pet diagnostics tool, we can find out the problem with your pet quickly, without surgery and start discussing treatment options with you.
What to Expect Booking Your Dog in for a Gastroscopy
Before a gastroscopy, your dog will need to fast for around 12 to 18 hours, depending on their size and the problem. They will then be placed under anaesthesia, and a thin, flexible tube with a camera will be inserted through typically the mouth to the digestive tract. The camera will show us a live view of inside your pet’s intestines, showing us any abnormalities.
In some cases, we can also take a biopsy to allow us to test tissue. Your dog should be able to return home the same day, although they may be groggy for up to 24 hours after the procedure, and need plenty of rest. We will be there to inform and guide you every step of the way.
Why Plus One Vet is the Choice for Pet Gastroscopy Procedures
Your pet undergoing any procedure, whether a minor one like a gastroscopy or surgery, can be a daunting time. Plus One Vet gives you the confidence, information and care you need to know you’re making the right choice for your fur baby (big or small).
Fully Equipped Clinic
When you bring your cat, dog or exotic pets to Plus One Vet, they can be assessed, diagnosed and treated all in one clinic, including advanced diagnostics and surgery. It means less stress for you and your pet, and a smoother road to recovery.
Education-Focused Care
Whatever reason your pet is at our Sunnybank vet office, we make sure you have the information and guidance you need to continue their care at home. You’ll get information on diet, bedding, grooming and anything else you want to know.
Multi-Lingual Team
Communication is such an important part of your pet’s healthcare journey. Our team isn’t just fluent in English, but also Mandarin Chinese, Cantonese and Taiwanese Hokkien so everyone can feel confident and comfortable discussing their pet’s needs.
Multiple Locations
Find Plus One Vet in Sunnybank and Nundah, with two convenient locations with plenty of parking and easy access for you and your pet. We also offer house calls for some of our pet patients, as well as video appointments in some situations.
Everything You Need to Know About Cat Gastroscopy
Cats are more prone to stomach issues than dogs, and can hide them very well. Sometimes it may be as simple as a dietary change upsetting their tummy, or something a little more serious that needs a visit to our Sunnybank vets. A gastroscopy may be recommended to give us insight into what’s happening inside your feline’s tum.
Cat Megaesophagus & Other Conditions Diagnosed With Gastrocopy
With a gastroscopy, we can diagnose a range of cat digestive problems, including:
- Megaesophagus, which means the cat’s esophagus is dilated, causing stomach problems.
- Foreign objects stuck in the esophagus.
- Esophageal strictures, where a smooth, white ring of fibrous tissue can narrow the esophagus.
- Tumors.
- Esophagitis, or inflammation.
- Gastric issues like redness, erosions, ulcers and chronic gastritis.
If required, a gastroscopy allows us to also take a biopsy sample to be able to test any suspicious growths. It’s a quick, minimally invasive way to get answers about your cat’s stomach health.
What happens during a cat gastroscopy procedure?
Like dogs, cats may need to fast for a period of time before a gastroscopy. A general anaesthetic is provided to keep your pet calm and comfortable, before the procedure begins. Our vet will then insert the endoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end to give us live imagery of the inside of your cat.
If needed, this is also when we would take a biopsy. Once they are awake and stable, your kitty can typically come home for some love and rest.
Booking in for Equine Gastroscopy
Gastroscopies can also be performed on horses. In a similar process to dogs and cats, a thin, long tube is guided into the horse’s esophagus and stomach to help diagnose a range of equine gastrointestinal problems. This can include ulcers, tumors, pylorus, duodenum and other stomach abnormalities.
Exceptional Pet Care
Read Why We’re The Vets Sunnybank Locals Bring Their Plus One To
Maria Martins
Customer
“Really friendly, helpful and caring staff, my dogs always feels comfortable coming to the vet and doesn’t get scared. Would definitely recommend.“
Dylan Fewings
Customer
“The practice were very kind and helpful, Dr Leo is a professional and helped me understand what was going on with my little fella”
Miranda Huang
Customer
“Best Vet in Brisbane. Dr Leo always asked me about my cats situation. And also congratulations about Leo’s second baby born.”
Dido Woo
Customer
“Best vet ever! Staff are very caring and friendly, Dr Leo is super professional. Thx for looking after my senior boi Million, definitely will come back for next year’s vaccination.”
Concerned about your pet? Book them in for a consultation today.
Dr. Leo and our team are here to help diagnose, treat and guide you on your options with complete compassion and care. Book an appointment to get the support you need to care for your pet’s needs.
