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CLINICAL RESOURCES

Sedation Tips for Diagnostic Imaging

Recommended pre-visit medications and sedation protocols to help patients remain comfortable, reduce movement, and support high-quality imaging studies. Download the complete guide or reference our quick recommendations below.

ACCESS FULL GUIDE

Veterinary team administering sedation before a CT scan or ultrasound procedure

CLINICAL RESOURCES

Sedation Tips for Diagnostic Imaging

Recommended pre-visit medications and sedation protocols to help patients remain comfortable, reduce movement, and support high-quality imaging studies. Download the complete guide or reference our quick recommendations below.

ACCESS FULL GUIDE

Sedation Reccomendations
Why Sedation Matters
Proper sedation plays an important role in obtaining high-quality diagnostic images. Patients that are tense or unable to remain still may require longer appointment times and can produce images that are more difficult to interpret. Thoughtful pre-visit medication and sedation protocols help improve patient comfort, support staff safety, and create the best possible imaging experience.
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IMPROVES IMAGE QUALITY
Services
REDUCES PATIENT STRESS
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ENHANCES
SAFTEY
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MINIMIZES IV
SEDATION
Quick Reference Guide
Sedation for Dogs
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PRE-VISIT PROTOCOL

  • Gabapentin: 10 mg/kg PO
  • Trazodone: 10 mg/kg PO
  • Timing: 2–3 hours before imaging
 
NOTE:
 
Gabapentin alone is often insufficient. Combining gabapentin & trazodone provides the most consistent results.
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ADDITIONAL OPTIONS

  • Butorphanol: 0.4 mg/kg IV
  • Acepromazine: 0.01–0.03 mg/kg IV
  • Dexmedetomidine: 1–5 μg/kg IV

 

NOTE:

Dexmedetomidine is recommended for abdominal ultrasounds only and is not advised for echocardiograms.

 
Sedation for Cats
Pill Bottle Icon

PRE-VISIT PROTOCOL

  • Gabapentin: 10 mg/kg PO
  • Trazodone: 25 mg PO
  • Timing: 2–3 hours before imaging
 
NOTE:
 
Gabapentin alone is often insufficient. Combining gabapentin & trazodone provides the most consistent results.
Needle Icon

ADDITIONAL OPTIONS

  • Butorphanol: 0.4 mg/kg IV
  • Acepromazine: 0.01–0.03 mg/kg IV
  •  Buprenorphine: 0.02–0.03 mg/kg IV 

 

NOTE:

Buprenorphine is effective for echocardiograms and abdominal ultrasounds.

 
Board-certified veterinary anesthesiologist administering IV sedation before diagnostic imaging
Complete
Reference Guide

QUESTIONS ABOUT PROTOCOLS?

Explore Dr. Thomas Day's complete sedation and pre-visit recommendations for dogs, cats, and rabbits undergoing diagnostic imaging. The full guide includes species-specific protocols, additional sedative options, and recommendations for echocardiography and abdominal ultrasound studies.

Keep a printed reference within easy reach by ordering some sedation magnets for your clinic. Designed as a quick-reference tool for veterinary teams, these magnets summarize key pre-visit medications and sedation recommendations to support efficient patient preparation and imaging appointments.