Pet endoscopy is a valuable diagnostic tool for veterinarians, offering a non-invasive way to examine pets’ internal organs. Using a flexible tube with a camera, veterinarians can visualize areas such as the esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, and respiratory tract.

This allows for direct observation of abnormalities and the collection of tissue samples for further analysis. Many endoscopes have the ability to take biopsies, which can be used to confirm inflammatory lesions or cancers.

Types of Veterinary Endoscopy Procedures

There are several types of vet endoscopy procedures commonly used for pets:

Gastroscopy

This procedure involves passing the endoscope through the mouth to examine the esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine. It is often used to diagnose conditions such as ulcers, foreign objects, inflammatory lesions, strictures, and tumors.

Colonoscopy

During a colonoscopy, the endoscope is inserted through the anus to examine the colon and large intestine. This procedure is helpful for diagnosing polyps, inflammatory lesions, and tumors.

Enteroscopy

This technique allows for a deeper examination of the small intestines. It is used to diagnose inflammatory lesions, strictures, or tumors.

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Why Would My Pet Need an Endoscopy?

Endoscopy can be a valuable diagnostic tool for pets and may be recommended by your veterinarian for several reasons:

Visualization of internal organs

It allows veterinarians to see and examine the internal organs directly, which can be helpful in diagnosing conditions with unexplained symptoms such as chronic vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, or changes in appetite.

Confirmation of abnormalities

Endoscopy can confirm changes in the internal organs that were observed on other imaging tests, such as X-rays or ultrasounds.

Minimally invasive

Compared to traditional surgery, endoscopy is less invasive, reducing the need for extensive procedures and long recovery times.

Biopsy collection

Tissue samples can be collected during the procedure for further analysis, providing a definitive diagnosis.

Foreign object removal

In some cases, gastroscopy can remove foreign objects from the stomach without the need for surgery.

Pet Health Conditions That Can Be Diagnosed with an Endoscopy

The pet endoscopy procedure can help diagnose a variety of gastrointestinal conditions, including:

  • Inflammatory bowel disease

  • Gastrointestinal cancers

  • Chronic gastritis, enteritis, or colitis

  • Polyps and other growths

  • Foreign bodies

  • Ulcers

  • Esophageal disease

  • Strictures

What to Expect With Your Pet’s Endoscopy Procedure

1. Preparation - First, your pet must be fasted for a certain period before the endoscopy procedure.

2. Anesthesia - Sedation or general anesthesia will be administered to keep your pet comfortable and still during the procedure.

3. Duration - The endoscopy typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the procedure and its findings. 

4. Recovery - Most pets can go home the same day after recovering from anesthesia, which is significantly faster than the recovery time after traditional surgery. Your pet may feel groggy or slightly lethargic from the anesthesia for a day or two but return to normal afterward.

5. Follow-up care - Based on the endoscopy findings, your veterinarian may prescribe medications or treatments, or recommend a special diet.

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Frequently Asked Questions

​​Is endoscopy risky for dogs?

Endoscopy is considered a low-risk, minimally invasive procedure.  There are shorter recovery times compared to traditional surgeries or biopsy techniques. Before scheduling an endoscopy, talk to your veterinarian about your pet’s sedation or general anesthesia risks.

Is endoscopy painful for my pet?

Endoscopy is generally not painful because it is performed under sedation or general anesthesia. Because it is minimally invasive, there is little to no post-procedure pain.

If biopsies are taken, your veterinarian will provide aftercare instructions to manage any possible discomfort.

Is it normal for pets to not eat after an endoscopy?

Some pets may experience temporary grogginess or nausea following anesthesia which can reduce their appetite. This typically resolves after 12-24 hours. If your pet refuses to eat following the typical recovery time, then it is important to contact your veterinarian to ensure there are no complications from the procedure.