MRI For Cats: Our Vet Explains What Is It, Uses & Costs

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a form of advanced diagnostic imaging that generates clear 3-D pictures of the soft tissues in the body. If you want more information about your cat’s central nervous system, ears, nose and other soft tissues, MRI is ideal.

X-rays (ionizing radiation) can image bones well, provide low-detail soft tissue pictures, and are used in plain radiographs and CT scans. If your cat has a kidney or liver problem, an ultrasound can image these organs in detail. However, ultrasound cannot penetrate the bones of the spine and skull, so if detailed pictures of the brain or spinal cord are needed, MRI is the only way to go. It hasn’t been around that long, and the first vet hospitals installed them in the ‘90s.

How Does MRI Work?

An MRI machine uses the body's natural magnetic properties to produce a picture. When your cat gets an MRI, they lie on a table and, depending on the machine, it either remains in place or slides into the MRI machine. The MRI machine then does the work of taking the 3-D pictures:

In veterinary hospitals, you might find low-field or high-field MRI scanners. High-field scanners generate superior images and can be used for many views, while low-field scanners are more affordable and practical.

For low-field scanners, the cats lie on the table, and the MRI works without moving them. In high-field scanners, the cats are placed in the MRI machine, much like a human MRI.

Where Is MRI Used?

In veterinary medicine, MRI is generally only used in specialist practices. It’s the best modality to look at the brain and spinal cord tissue in cats. It helps diagnose diseases of the central nervous system. It can also help when planning radiation therapy or surgery on a tumor.

It can help determine the extent of the disease and inform treatment options. If your cat has clinical signs like seizures, poor mentation, wobbly gait, weakness, or abnormal reflexes, an MRI can help diagnose what is happening.

This modality shows the eyes and optic nerves very clearly, so problems here can be detected, too. It can also be used with CT scans for complicated joint problems, but that is more common in dogs.

Advantages of MRI

Disadvantages of MRI

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How Long Does a Cat MRI Take?

An MRI can take an hour or two for the imaging itself, or more in some cases, depending on the specifics of the problem. After the procedure, your cat will also need to recover from the anesthesia, which usually takes a few hours.

Do Cats Need Anesthesia for an MRI?

Yes. The MRI machine is extremely sensitive to small movements, and the cat must remain completely still for the duration of the MRI. This is only achievable under general anesthesia. The MRI scanner can also be quite noisy, which can scare cats.

What Is the Cost of an MRI for Cats?

An MRI costs a few thousand dollars. According to Lemonade Insurance, a veterinary MRI can cost between $2,500 and $6,000.

Conclusion

MRI is an advanced diagnostic imaging modality usually performed at referral and specialist veterinary practices. It can be incredibly useful for diagnosing your cat’s illness, especially if the condition is in the central nervous system. It’s essential to understand the pros and cons of MRIs before you commit to one. If the cost of an MRI is out of your budget, remember an MRI is not a cure for your cat’s disease.

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