Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging Market is estimated to be valued at USD 1,109.2 Mn in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 1,818.8 Mn in 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of7.32% from 2025 to 2032.
The Global Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging Market is experiencing strong growth due to the rise in burden of zoonotic/chronic diseases and rise in companion animal population around the world. Moreover, rise in demand for veterinary diagnostics and rise in animal health expenditure is expected to boost growth of the market. However, factors such as high cost of veterinary diagnostic imaging devices and lack of skilled or trained personnel or lack of veterinarians are expected to hamper growth of the global veterinary diagnostic imaging market.
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Global Disease Outbreaks Driving Imaging Demand |
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Technological Disruptions Reshaping Capabilities |
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Supply Chain Constraints Impacting Equipment Availability |
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The veterinary diagnostic imaging pipeline primarily focuses on advanced medical devices and contrast agents designed to improve imaging accuracy and safety in animals.
Phase III candidates include gadolinium-based contrast agents like VetContrast-Pro (Zoetis Inc.), CanineMRI-Enhanced Solution (Boehringer Ingelheim), and EchoVet Ultrasound Enhancer (Merck Animal Health), which aim to enhance diagnostic clarity for complex conditions.
In Phase II, innovations such as iodinated contrast VET-CT-201 (Elanco Animal Health) and molecular probes like VetScan (IDEXX Laboratories) are under development, expanding imaging capabilities across multiple modalities.
Phase I features novel agents like NanoVet Particles (Heska Corporation) and SmartContrast Vet Formula (Mars Petcare), focusing on improving molecular-level imaging with better safety profiles.
The preclinical stage highlights emerging technologies including AI-enhanced contrast agents (Dechra Pharmaceuticals) and quantum dot markers (Vetoquinol), indicating a trend towards integrating cutting-edge nanotechnology and artificial intelligence.
Key regulatory pathways involve FDA-CVM designations such as Minor Use/Minor Species (MUMS) and conditional approvals, while challenges include species-specific safety testing and cost-effectiveness demands.
Overall, this pipeline reflects a dynamic landscape driven by growing demand for sophisticated veterinary imaging tools, supported by increasing pet ownership and advancing veterinary care standards.
The patent landscape in the veterinary diagnostic imaging market reflects robust innovation activity focused on enhancing imaging accuracy, safety, and device integration. Key players including Zoetis Inc., IDEXX Laboratories, Merck Animal Health, and Boehringer Ingelheim hold a significant share of patents related to contrast agents, imaging enhancers, and novel diagnostic compounds specifically designed for veterinary applications.
Recent patent filings emphasize advancements in non-invasive imaging technologies such as ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), along with the development of species-specific contrast agents to improve diagnostic precision. Additionally, there is a growing number of patents related to the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms to enhance image processing, interpretation, and diagnostic decision-making.
Emerging trends include the protection of novel nanotechnology-based imaging agents and portable imaging devices aimed at increasing accessibility in veterinary practice. The competitive patent environment encourages ongoing research and development, fostering collaboration between pharmaceutical companies, veterinary device manufacturers, and technology firms.
However, patent challenges persist due to the complexity of veterinary regulatory requirements and the need for cross-compatibility with human imaging technologies. Overall, the patent landscape underscores a vibrant innovation pipeline critical to advancing veterinary diagnostic imaging capabilities.
The global veterinary diagnostic imaging market’s growth is closely linked to evolving reimbursement frameworks that vary significantly by region. North America leads with the highest pet insurance adoption, facilitating greater utilization of imaging diagnostics. Insured pets undergo 2.3 times more diagnostic procedures than uninsured ones, driving demand for reimbursable imaging services.
In the United States, reimbursement is governed by the Current Veterinary Terminology (CVT) coding system, covering modalities like radiography, CT, MRI, and ultrasound. Major pet insurers—such as Trupanion, Pets Best, and ASPCA Pet Health Insurance—reimburse 75-90% of eligible imaging expenses, with annual limits ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 per condition. Radiography and ultrasound receive the highest reimbursement rates, typically around 85-90%.
Europe utilizes the European Veterinary Procedure Classification (EVPC), while Asia-Pacific reimbursement varies widely by country, each with distinct veterinary associations managing coding and coverage.
Accident-only insurance plans, covering trauma-related imaging, represent about 25% of the market but have lower reimbursement rates (70-80%). Wellness plans provide preventive imaging allowances but with limited coverage.
Despite regulatory and coding complexities, expanding pet insurance penetration and increasing veterinary care spending continue to bolster reimbursement support, fueling market growth worldwide.
Veterinary practitioners show clear preferences in imaging modalities based on diagnostic needs, cost, and patient safety. Digital radiography (X-ray) remains the predominant first-line imaging choice, favored by 78% of vets for its cost-effectiveness, accessibility, and diagnostic reliability. Key equipment brands preferred include Sedecal Yada (34%), IDEXX Digital Radiography (28%), and portable MinXray units (15%), particularly in rural or mobile practices.
When initial imaging is inconclusive, 67% of veterinarians advance to ultrasound, valuing its non-invasive nature. Leading ultrasound systems include GE LOGIQ V2 (41%) for versatility, Sonosite Edge II (29%) for portability, and Mindray DC-70 (22%) for affordability. Sedation protocols during ultrasound often use dexmedetomidine, midazolam, or butorphanol for patient comfort.
For complex diagnostics, 45% of practitioners prefer CT imaging, while 35% utilize MRI. Popular CT systems are Canon Aquilion Lightning and GE Revolution EVO; MRI choices include the dedicated Hallmarq Vet-MR Grande (52%) and cost-effective Esaote Vet-MR (31%). Advanced imaging frequently requires general anesthesia with agents like propofol.
Overall, prescribers balance diagnostic accuracy, patient welfare, and operational practicality, shaping modality selection in veterinary imaging.
In terms of equipment, the radiography (X-ray) systems segment is expected to dominate with 32.5% share of the global veterinary diagnostic imaging market in 2025, accounting for the largest share. The strong demand for radiography stems from its critical role in delivering accurate diagnostic insights into complex animal health conditions. Veterinarians rely heavily on X-ray imaging to detect fractures, respiratory issues, and other internal abnormalities, making it a fundamental diagnostic tool across animal care settings.
Ultrasound imaging systems are also poised for significant growth due to increasing demand for non-invasive and painless diagnostic solutions. Ultrasound offers a safe and user-friendly option for veterinarians to assess soft tissue structures, pregnancies, and cardiac health in animals, boosting its adoption in clinical practice.
The cardiology segment is set to lead the market in terms of application, driven by a rising prevalence of cardiovascular diseases in companion animals. Advanced imaging technologies enable veterinarians to identify and monitor heart conditions with greater precision, improving treatment outcomes.
Meanwhile, the oncology segment is expected to experience rapid growth, fueled by the increasing burden of cancer among pets, especially dogs and cats. As cancer remains a leading cause of mortality in companion animals, enhanced imaging techniques are becoming indispensable for early detection and effective management.
The small animal’s segment is projected to dominate the market, reflecting the surge in pet adoption and the growing population of companion animals worldwide. Increased pet ownership is prompting greater demand for sophisticated diagnostic imaging to support preventive care and treatment.
Large animals represent a smaller but steady market segment, primarily driven by the need for diagnostic solutions in livestock and equine care. Veterinary imaging in this segment focuses on orthopedic, reproductive, and internal health monitoring to optimize animal welfare and productivity.
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North America is expected to hold the largest share of 42.40% in 2025 of the global veterinary diagnostic imaging market. This dominance is driven by the increasing population of companion animals, rising prevalence of animal diseases and injuries, and growing expenditure on animal healthcare.
The region has witnessed significant growth in pet ownership; for example, the 2021-22 National Pet Owners Survey reports that 70% of U.S. households have companion animals. Additionally, data from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) shows that approximately 45% of households owned dogs and 26% owned cats in 2020, reflecting an upward trend compared to previous years. These factors contribute to heightened demand for advanced veterinary imaging technologies to improve diagnosis and treatment.
Asia Pacific is anticipated to experience robust growth in the veterinary diagnostic imaging market, supported by rising awareness of animal health, increasing companion animal populations, and a growing prevalence of animal diseases. Efforts by organizations such as the Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisation (FIAPO) highlight increasing attention towards animal welfare through advocacy, awareness campaigns, and policy engagement.
These developments are driving demand for safe and effective veterinary medical care, which in turn is fueling investment in diagnostic imaging technologies across the region. The expanding livestock sector and urbanization further boost market prospects in key countries like India and China.
The United States leads the North American market, bolstered by a well-established companion animal care industry and high pet ownership rates. Advanced veterinary healthcare infrastructure and widespread adoption of diagnostic imaging modalities such as digital radiography and ultrasound support market growth. The U.S. also benefits from substantial veterinary research investments and a strong regulatory framework that promotes innovation in animal diagnostics.
India is a prominent market within Asia Pacific, propelled by increased pet adoption and growing government and NGO initiatives focused on animal welfare. Organizations like FIAPO actively promote animal protection and healthcare awareness, contributing to greater demand for veterinary diagnostic services. Rising disposable incomes and expanding veterinary infrastructure in urban centers are also key drivers.
China’s veterinary diagnostic imaging market is expanding rapidly due to the rising demand for livestock health management and companion animal care. Government policies supporting modern veterinary practices, increasing investment in rural veterinary clinics, and growing awareness about animal health are accelerating market development. The country is also becoming a manufacturing hub for veterinary diagnostic equipment.
| Report Coverage | Details | ||
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| Base Year: | 2024 | Market Size in 2025: | USD 1,109.2 Mn |
| Historical Data for: | 2020 To 2024 | Forecast Period: | 2025 To 2032 |
| Forecast Period 2025 to 2032 CAGR: | 7.32% | 2032 Value Projection: | USD 1,818.8 Mn |
| Geographies covered: |
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| Segments covered: |
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| Companies covered: |
Esaote SPA, Epica Animal Health, IDEXX Laboratories, Carestream Health, IMV Imaging, Fujifilm Holdings Corp., Hallmarq Veterinary Imaging, and Canon Medical Systems Corporation, among others. |
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| Growth Drivers: |
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| Restraints & Challenges: |
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One of the key factors expected to augment the growth of the global veterinary diagnostic imaging market during the forecast period is the increasing incidence of zoonotic and chronic diseases. For instance, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), zoonotic diseases are very common, both in the U.S. and worldwide.
More than six out of every ten known infectious diseases in people can be spread from animals, and three out of every four new and/or emerging infectious diseases in people come from animals. Hence, CDC works 24/7 to protect people from zoonotic diseases in the United States and around the world.
Another factor which is driving the growth of the global veterinary diagnostic imaging market is the rise in companion animal population around the world. For instance, with the rise in companion animal population, the demand for safe & effective veterinary diagnostic imaging is also increasing with a rapid pace.
According to healthforanimals.org, families in the U.S., European Union, Brazil, and China alone account for over half a billion dogs and cats, while more than half the world is estimated to have a pet at home. Moreover, pet ownership increased 113% between 2014 and 2019, and by 2024, experts estimate China will have the most pets in the world.
Rise in demand for veterinary diagnostics across the globe is expected to offer significant growth opportunities for players in the global veterinary diagnostic imaging market. For instance, with the increasing prevalence of zoonotic and chronic diseases, the demand for safe & effective veterinary diagnostics is also increasing.
Thus, market players are focusing on developing & launching novel products in the market. In February 2022, Aycan Medical Systems added Softneta's MedDream VET DICOM Viewer to its expanding portfolio of veterinary imaging. It is a natural extension of Aycan’s other solutions and developed on the same DICOM standard.
Rise in animal health expenditure is expected to offer lucrative growth opportunities for players in the global veterinary diagnostic imaging market. For instance, the health of animals is inextricably linked to the wellbeing of people and planet. According to the National Pet Owners Survey 2021-2022, the annual expenditure on routine visits for dogs is USD 242, whereas it is USD 178 for cats in the United States.
Moreover, according to the American Pet Products Association, in 2021, over USD 123.6 billion were spent on the pets in the U.S. Such increasing focus on animal healthcare is driving the veterinary diagnostic imaging market growth.
Owing to the increasing focus on veterinary healthcare, the demand for veterinary services is also increasing around the world. For instance, veterinary imaging devices are easy to use and provide veterinarians with the information they need to make quick decisions and diagnose animals faster compared to other devices.
In February 2021, DCC (Dogs, Cats, & Companions) Animal Hospital launched multi-speciality animal hospitals in India to offer cutting-edge medical technologies for animals. This trend is expected to continue over the forecast period.
Advancements in the field of veterinary healthcare is expected to flourish the veterinary diagnostic imaging market during the forecast period owing to respective benefits. Artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality, 3D imaging, and wearable medical imaging devices are few of the technologies that are expected to pave the way for future advancements in the field of veterinary diagnostic imaging around the world. This trend is also expected to continue during the forecast period.
*Definition: Veterinary imaging is field of veterinary medicine that involves collection of medical images of animals to prevent, manage, diagnose, and treat a wide variety of diseases, disorders, and injuries in animals. Diagnostic imaging provides imaging services for all species of animals, including companion, large, and exotic animals.
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About Author
Komal Dighe is a Management Consultant with over 8 years of experience in market research and consulting. She excels in managing and delivering high-quality insights and solutions in Health-tech Consulting reports. Her expertise encompasses conducting both primary and secondary research, effectively addressing client requirements, and excelling in market estimation and forecast. Her comprehensive approach ensures that clients receive thorough and accurate analyses, enabling them to make informed decisions and capitalize on market opportunities.
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