CT Scanning for Pets in Kent

Advanced imaging. Faster answers. Better outcomes.

At Beacon View Vets in Kent, we’re proud to offer in-house CT scanning, a powerful diagnostic tool that gives us a detailed look inside your pet’s body. Whether your dog has been limping, or your cat has a persistent cough; a CT scan can help us get the answers quickly and accurately.

Has your vet recommended a CT scan for your pet? Our independent East Kent team provides outpatient CT scanning from £1,250, including sedation or anaesthesia, image processing and a specialist radiologist’s report. We work closely with your usual veterinary practice and send the results directly to them.

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What is a CT scan?

A CT (computed tomography) scan uses x-ray technology combined with advanced computer processing to generate detailed, 3D images of your pet’s internal structures. It’s far more precise than a standard x-ray and allows us to investigate areas that are otherwise difficult to assess.

  • We can detect small tumours, hidden injuries or internal bleeding.
  • We can see inside the head, chest, abdomen, spine, or joints in remarkable detail.
  • We can plan surgeries or treatments with greater confidence.

When might your pet need a CT scan?

Some of the most common reasons we recommend a CT scan include:

  • Unexplained lameness or joint pain
  • Investigating cancer or checking for metastatic spread
  • Head trauma or nasal issues
  • Suspected spinal problems or disc disease
  • Migrating foreign bodies such as grass seeds
  • Dental or jaw problems
  • Internal bleeding or breathing difficulties

We also accept referrals from other vets in Kent and the South East.

Transparent pricing

We believe advanced imaging shouldn’t come with a premium price tag. CT scans at Beacon View Vets start from £1,250, including sedation or anaesthesia, the scan itself, image processing, and a full specialist radiologist report.

We've invested in this equipment to make advanced pet care available locally. We’re proud to offer better imaging at a better price without compromising on care.

Scans from
£1250.00

Sedation or anaesthesia and a
specialist radiologist’s report included.

Request a written estimate

Modern CT imaging at Beacon View

Our brand new multidetector CT scanner creates detailed cross-sectional and 3D images of the body. Images are acquired quickly, helping to minimise the time your pet spends under sedation or anaesthesia, and each scan is interpreted by a specialist veterinary radiologist.

  • Lower radiation doses thanks to modern imaging software
  • Faster scan times reduce the need for prolonged anaesthesia or sedation
  • High definition 3D images reveal fine details potentially missed by older machines

CT vs X-ray; what's the difference?

X-ray CT Scan
2D image 3D, cross-sectional images
Good for bones/fractures Ideal for soft tissue, internal organs, joints, tumours
Quick and widely used Higher detail, especially in complex cases
Often used for screening Often used for diagnosis and planning

What to expect on the day of a scan

Before the scan

Your pet will need to fast for a few hours. One of our team will discuss this with you beforehand.

During the scan

To ensure accurate images, your pet will be given a short-acting sedative or light anaesthetic. The scan itself takes just a few minutes, but we take time to carefully position your pet and may perform more than one scan; for example, using contrast dye to highlight certain areas.

After the scan

Your pet will be monitored as they recover and can usually go home the same day. A specialist radiologist will review the scan images and provide a full report, which we’ll go through with you to plan next steps.

Is it safe?

Yes. CT is a non-invasive imaging technique that allows us to see inside your pet’s body without surgery. Our state-of-the-art CT scanner uses the latest technology to keep radiation doses as low as possible while capturing detailed images. Sedation or anaesthesia is carefully tailored to your pet by our experienced veterinary team, and your pet is monitored closely throughout the process.

Why choose Beacon View Vets for CT imaging?

  • In-house CT scanner – No long waits or stressful travel to external centres.
  • Clear pricing – with scans starting from £1,250.
  • Sedation or anaesthesia included – in the standard scan price.
  • Specialist interpretation – with a full radiologist’s report.
  • Independent East Kent team – providing personal and compassionate care.
  • Conveniently located in Eastry – near Sandwich, Deal, Dover and Canterbury.

Request a CT estimate for your pet

If your vet has recommended a CT scan, complete the short form below and our team will provide a clear written estimate and explain the next steps.

Your pet will need to be referred by their usual veterinary practice before a scan can be booked. With your permission, we can contact your vet to request the relevant clinical history.

Already received an estimate? Upload it below and we will provide a like-for-like comparison where possible. There is no obligation to book.

CT Referral

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    What happens next

    1. We review your request
      Our team checks the information you have provided.
    2. We contact you
      We explain the likely costs and any further information needed.
    3. We liaise with your vet
      With your permission, we request the relevant clinical history and referral.
    4. You decide whether to proceed
      If you wish to go ahead, we arrange a suitable appointment.

    Are you a veterinary professional looking to refer a patient for CT?

    Refer a patient through EKVR

    Frequently Asked Questions About Pet CT Scans

    How much does a CT scan for a dog, cat or rabbit cost at Beacon View Vets?

    CT scans at Beacon View Vets start from £1,250. This includes sedation or general anaesthesia, the CT scan, contrast if required, image processing and a full report from a specialist veterinary radiologist.

    We will provide a written estimate based on your pet's individual needs before the scan is booked. Any additional costs will be clearly explained in advance.

    Can I choose where my pet has their CT scan?

    Yes, you can discuss the available referral options, locations and likely costs with your usual veterinary surgeon.

    If Beacon View isn't your normal veterinary practice your vet can refer your pet to us.

    Do I need to change veterinary practices to use your CT service?

    No. You do not need to register with Beacon View Vets or leave your usual veterinary practice.

    We provide outpatient CT scanning in collaboration with your normal vet. Once the scan has been completed, the images and specialist radiology report are returned to your veterinary surgeon so they can discuss the findings and next steps with you.

    Can my vet refer my pet for a CT scan only?

    Yes. We accept outpatient CT referrals where your pet attends Beacon View for the scan and then returns to the care of their usual veterinary practice.

    If your vet would like additional referral treatment or advice from our sister service East Kent Veterinary Referrals, this can be discussed separately.

    What happens after I request a CT estimate?

    Our team will review the information you provide and contact you to explain the next steps.

    With your consent, we can request the relevant clinical history from your usual veterinary practice. Once we understand what your vet would like investigated, we can provide a written estimate and arrange an appointment if you decide to proceed.

    Submitting the form is an enquiry and does not commit you to booking a scan.

    Can you compare a CT estimate I have received from another veterinary provider?

    Yes. You can upload an existing estimate, referral letter, email or screenshot when completing our CT estimate form.

    We will provide a clear written estimate and, where possible, help you compare what is included. The final cost will depend on the type of scan and your pet's individual clinical requirements.

    Will my pet need sedation or a general anaesthetic for their CT scan?

    Pets need to remain completely still while CT images are being taken. Most veterinary CT scans therefore require either sedation or a short general anaesthetic.

    The most appropriate option will depend on your pet, their health, the area being scanned and the clinical question being investigated. Our team will assess your pet and select the most appropriate approach.

    How long will my pet need to stay at Beacon View?

    Most pets attend Beacon View for part of the day. Time is needed for admission, a veterinary assessment, preparation, the CT scan and recovery from sedation or anaesthesia.

    We will confirm your pet's admission arrangements before the appointment and contact you when they are ready to go home.

    What conditions can a CT scan help investigate?

    CT scanning can provide detailed images of bones, joints, the head, nasal passages, ears, chest, lungs, abdomen and other parts of the body.

    Your vet may recommend a CT scan when investigating persistent nasal discharge, ear disease, unexplained lameness, complex dental or jaw conditions, suspected foreign bodies, chest or abdominal conditions, suspected cancer or problems that have not been fully explained by an X-ray or ultrasound.

    Your veterinary surgeon will advise whether CT is appropriate for your pet's particular condition.

    What is the difference between a CT scan and an X-ray?

    An X-ray creates a two-dimensional image in which different structures can overlap.

    A CT scanner takes multiple images from different angles and uses them to create detailed cross-sectional images. These can also be reconstructed into three-dimensional views where clinically useful.

    CT is not a replacement for every X-ray. Your vet will recommend the imaging method that is most appropriate for the area and condition being investigated.

    Who examines my pet's CT images?

    Your pet's CT images are reviewed by a specialist veterinary radiologist.

    The radiologist produces a detailed written report, which is sent to your usual veterinary surgeon. Your vet can then discuss the findings, diagnosis and recommended next steps with you.

    Can pet insurance cover the cost of a CT scan?

    Some pet insurance policies cover diagnostic imaging, including CT scans, but this will depend on your policy, exclusions, excess and remaining benefit limit.

    We recommend contacting your insurer before the appointment to confirm the level of cover available. We can provide a written estimate and the relevant invoices or clinical documentation needed to support your claim.

    Do you provide CT scans for dogs, rabbits and cats?

    Yes. We accept CT referrals for both dogs, cats, rabbits and exotic patients.

    The scanning and anaesthetic plan will be adapted to the individual patient, including their size, health and the part of the body being investigated.

    Where is Beacon View Vets' CT scanning service located?

    Our CT scanner is located at Beacon View Vets on the High Street in Eastry, near Sandwich in East Kent.

    We accept referrals from veterinary practices throughout Kent and the South East, including Canterbury, Deal, Dover, Folkestone, Thanet, Ashford and surrounding areas. Free off-street parking is available outside the practice.

    Has your vet recommended a CT scan for your pet?

    Request a CT estimate