What Is Endoscopy for Pets?
Endoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible or rigid camera-equipped tube called an endoscope to view internal structures inside your pet’s body in real time. The scope is equipped with a light, a high-definition camera, and special channels that allow us to take biopsies, remove foreign objects, or collect samples without the need for traditional surgery.
Endoscopy is performed under general anesthesia to keep your pet still and comfortable. There are no large incisions, and most pets go home the same day with minimal post-procedure discomfort.
There are different types of endoscopy used depending on your pet’s symptoms and the area being examined, including:
- Gastrointestinal endoscopy (examining the esophagus, stomach, intestines, and colon)
- Rhinoscopy (examining the nasal cavity and sinuses)
- Bronchoscopy (examining the airways and lungs)
- Cystoscopy (examining the bladder and urinary tract)
These procedures are often recommended when imaging like X-rays or ultrasound doesn’t provide sufficient information, or when a less invasive approach is safer and more appropriate for your pet’s condition.
What Can Endoscopy Be Used for in Pets?
Endoscopy gives our veterinarians an inside view of your pet’s body, offering critical insight with minimal disruption to surrounding tissue. It’s commonly used to diagnose or treat conditions such as:
- Chronic vomiting or diarrhea
- Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
- Foreign body ingestion (such as toys, bones, or string)
- Chronic nasal discharge, sneezing, or nosebleeds
- Persistent coughing or trouble breathing
- Recurring urinary tract infections or incontinence
In many cases, endoscopy allows us to not only see the problem but also fix it in the same procedure, such as retrieving an object from the stomach or taking biopsies to confirm a diagnosis. Because it’s minimally invasive, there’s less pain, a lower risk of complications, and a faster return to normal activity for your pet.
"Dr. Byrne is great! She is treating our Haley for lymphoma and we are very impressed with her knowledge, caring, compassion, and “bedside” manner. She has spent as much time as we needed, and wanted, in helping us understand Haley’s treatments and care plan. The entire staff have been so kind and caring to deal with."
Don B. | Fetch Client