How much does a pet MRI or CT scan cost?
Last updated: May 2026 · Methodology · Sources
Quick answer: Pet MRI costs $1,800–$3,500; pet CT scan costs $1,200–$2,500. Both are specialty imaging for complex diagnoses (IVDD, brain, orthopedic cases).
What's typically billed
| Component | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| CT scan (anesthesia included) | $1,000 | $1,600 | $2,500 |
| MRI scan (anesthesia included) | $1,500 | $2,200 | $3,500 |
| Radiologist interpretation | $150 | $300 | $500 |
| Pre-operative bloodwork | $80 | $150 | $250 |
| Post-operative recovery monitoring | $100 | $200 | $300 |
Teal marker = typical cost · shaded band = low–high range. Biggest cost drivers first.
What drives the price
- Scan type: CT (faster, better for bone/lungs) vs. MRI (better for soft tissue/brain).
- Location in body: head/brain, spinal cord (IVDD), chest, or abdomen; some areas require longer scans and higher cost.
- Anesthesia duration: longer scans (MRI) cost more due to extended anesthesia and monitoring.
- Geographic availability: specialty imaging centers are limited; travel/referral may add logistics costs.
- Radiologist expertise: board-certified veterinary radiologist interpretation may add $150–$500.
When MRI or CT is needed
Advanced imaging is necessary for complex diagnoses that ultrasound, X-rays, and bloodwork cannot clarify. MRI is superior for soft tissue and neurological cases (IVDD, brain tumors, spinal cord compression). CT is faster and excellent for bone, lungs, and acute trauma. Both require anesthesia due to the need for stillness during imaging. These are specialty services available only at larger veterinary hospitals or imaging centers.
- CT scan: faster (10–15 min), excellent for bone and lungs, good for trauma assessment; $1,200–$2,500.
- MRI scan: slower (30–60 min), superior for soft tissue and neurological cases (IVDD, brain, spinal cord); $1,800–$3,500.
- Combination CT + MRI: sometimes recommended for complex cases; $3,500–$5,000+ total.
Insurance coverage
Most pet insurance covers advanced imaging (MRI/CT) at 70–90% after deductible, but coverage is often limited to one scan per condition per year. Some policies require pre-approval.
Ways to manage cost
- Ask your vet if the imaging is truly necessary; sometimes clinical diagnosis or conservative treatment is appropriate instead.
- Compare costs between imaging centers; prices vary significantly by region and facility.
- Request to use your own anesthesiologist or ask if the facility has a package discount for combined anesthesia + imaging.
- Ask if images can be burned to CD for a second opinion; some specialists offer remote interpretation ($150–$300).
FAQ
Is anesthesia required for MRI/CT?
Yes. Pets must remain perfectly still during scanning. Light sedation is sometimes possible for CT; MRI usually requires general anesthesia.
How long does anesthesia recovery take?
30 minutes to 2 hours depending on anesthesia type. Most pets go home the same day. Pain medication and activity restriction for 7–10 days post-procedure.
How soon are results available?
Images available immediately; formal radiologist report in 1–3 days. Preliminary results often discussed the same day.
Note: This is an editorial recommendation linking to our own analysis, not a paid placement. PetPlanWise has no current affiliate partnerships; future paid placements will be labeled "Sponsored" here. Policy.
Compare insurance vs. self-insurance
Understand the trade-offs between coverage and out-of-pocket costs for your pet.