The global veterinary imaging market, valued at USD 1.62 billion in 2021, is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2%, reaching USD 2.99 billion by 2030. Growth in this market is driven by increasing pet ownership, rising demand for advanced diagnostics, and technological innovations in imaging equipment used for both companion animals and livestock.

Market Overview

Veterinary imaging encompasses a range of diagnostic imaging technologies used to evaluate the health of animals. These technologies include X-ray, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and nuclear imaging. They play a critical role in identifying fractures, tumors, internal injuries, and other health conditions, allowing veterinarians to provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plans.

The market has experienced significant growth due to the increasing number of pet owners worldwide, rising awareness about animal health, and growth in veterinary clinics and hospitals. Additionally, the demand for advanced imaging modalities has surged as veterinarians seek to provide better care for companion animals, livestock, and exotic species.

Furthermore, the expansion of veterinary diagnostic services in emerging economies, along with innovations such as portable imaging systems, digital radiography, and AI-assisted imaging, has strengthened market growth.

Market Segmentation

The veterinary imaging market can be segmented by technology type, animal type, end user, and product.

By Technology Type

  1. X-ray Imaging Systems
  • The most widely used technology in veterinary clinics.
  • Preferred for diagnosing fractures, dental issues, and skeletal disorders.
Ultrasound Imaging Systems
  • Used for reproductive monitoring, abdominal imaging, and cardiac assessments.
  • Portable and cost-effective, contributing to growing adoption.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scanners
  • Provides detailed cross-sectional images for complex diagnoses.
  • Increasingly used in specialty veterinary hospitals.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Systems
  • Offers high-resolution soft tissue imaging, including neurological and orthopedic conditions.
  • Primarily adopted in advanced veterinary hospitals.
Other Imaging Modalities
  • Includes nuclear imaging and fluoroscopy, used for specialized diagnostics.

By Animal Type

  1. Companion Animals
  • Largest segment due to the global increase in pet ownership.
  • Includes dogs, cats, and exotic pets requiring routine and specialized imaging.
Livestock Animals
  • Includes cattle, sheep, pigs, and poultry.
  • Imaging is used for reproductive monitoring, disease detection, and herd health management.
Equine Animals
  • Focused on horses for sports, work, and breeding purposes.

By End User

  1. Veterinary Clinics
  • Small and medium-sized clinics represent a large user base for X-ray and ultrasound systems.
Veterinary Hospitals
  • Specialized hospitals adopt advanced modalities like CT and MRI for complex cases.
Research & Academic Institutions
  • Use imaging systems for animal research, drug testing, and educational purposes.
Other End Users
  • Includes diagnostic labs and government veterinary programs.

By Product Type

  1. Stationary Systems
  • High-end, fixed imaging systems like MRI and CT used in hospitals and research facilities.
Portable Systems
  • Includes portable X-ray and ultrasound devices for field use and small clinics.

Regional Analysis

North America

  • Dominates the market due to high pet ownership, advanced veterinary healthcare infrastructure, and early adoption of digital imaging technologies.
  • The U.S. is a key market with a large number of veterinary hospitals and specialty clinics using advanced imaging modalities.

Europe

  • Strong growth driven by regulations promoting animal welfare, high expenditure on veterinary care, and increasing adoption of advanced imaging technologies.
  • Germany, France, and the UK are leading countries in veterinary imaging adoption.

Asia-Pacific

  • Expected to register the fastest growth, driven by rising pet ownership in urban areas, growth in veterinary infrastructure, and increasing awareness about animal healthcare.
  • Countries like China, India, and Japan are seeing significant investments in veterinary hospitals and clinics.

Latin America

  • Moderate growth fueled by increasing livestock farming and companion animal healthcare.
  • Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina are key markets for veterinary imaging adoption.

Middle East & Africa

  • Emerging region with opportunities in urban centers and veterinary specialty hospitals.
  • Growth is constrained by limited infrastructure and affordability challenges, but investments in pet care and livestock health programs are increasing.

Key Market Growth Drivers

  1. Rising Pet Ownership and Pet Humanization
  • Global increase in pet adoption and willingness to spend on advanced veterinary care drives demand for imaging equipment.
Technological Advancements in Imaging
  • Innovations such as digital radiography, portable X-ray units, AI-assisted diagnostics, and wireless ultrasound probes improve accuracy and efficiency.
Expansion of Veterinary Healthcare Infrastructure
  • Growth in veterinary clinics, hospitals, and specialty centers is increasing the adoption of advanced imaging systems.
Increased Awareness of Animal Health
  • Pet owners are more aware of preventive care, leading to higher utilization of diagnostic imaging for early detection of diseases.
Rising Incidence of Chronic and Infectious Diseases in Animals
  • Increasing prevalence of conditions like osteoarthritis, cancer, and cardiac disorders in pets and livestock necessitates advanced imaging solutions.
Government Initiatives and Animal Welfare Programs
  • Policies promoting animal health, veterinary research, and livestock productivity contribute to market expansion.

Market Challenges

  1. High Cost of Advanced Imaging Equipment
  • CT and MRI systems are expensive, limiting adoption to high-end veterinary hospitals.
Need for Skilled Operators
  • Advanced imaging requires trained veterinarians and technicians, which may be scarce in some regions.
Maintenance and Calibration Requirements
  • Ensuring the accuracy of imaging systems involves ongoing maintenance, which adds operational costs.
Limited Awareness in Emerging Markets
  • In developing regions, veterinary clinics may still rely on traditional diagnostic methods due to affordability concerns.

Key Companies

The veterinary imaging market is highly competitive, with both global medical imaging leaders and specialized veterinary equipment manufacturers participating. Major companies include:

  1. Sound Technologies – Provides portable ultrasound and digital X-ray systems for veterinary applications.
  2. Esaote S.p.A. – Offers a wide range of veterinary MRI and ultrasound solutions.
  3. Samsung Medison – Supplies veterinary imaging systems with advanced ultrasound technology.
  4. GE Healthcare – Produces high-end veterinary CT, MRI, and X-ray equipment.
  5. Agfa-Gevaert Group – Offers digital radiography solutions for veterinary use.
  6. Fujifilm Holdings Corporation – Provides imaging systems for companion animals and livestock diagnostics.
  7. Canon Medical Systems Corporation – Supplies CT, MRI, and ultrasound equipment tailored for veterinary use.
  8. Other Key Players – IDEXX Laboratories, Heska Corporation, and Midmark Corporation focus on imaging and integrated diagnostic solutions.

𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐞:

https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/veterinary-imaging-market 

Market Outlook

The veterinary imaging market is poised for sustained growth, expanding from USD 1.62 billion in 2021 to USD 2.99 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 7.2%. Key trends shaping the market include:

  • Integration with Digital and AI Technologies – Digital X-ray and AI-assisted imaging improve diagnostic accuracy and workflow efficiency.
  • Portable and Field-Ready Imaging Devices – Expansion in rural areas and small clinics supports adoption of portable systems.
  • Increasing Investment in Companion Animal Care – Pet owners prioritize preventive care, driving demand for imaging diagnostics.
  • Expansion into Emerging Markets – Rising awareness and infrastructure development in Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East present significant growth opportunities.

Conclusion

The global veterinary imaging market is expected to experience significant growth in the coming years, driven by rising pet ownership, technological advancements, and the increasing prevalence of chronic and infectious animal diseases. Companies investing in digital, AI-enabled, and portable imaging solutions are well-positioned to capture opportunities across both developed and emerging markets.

With an expected market value of USD 2.99 billion by 2030, veterinary imaging is emerging as a critical tool for improving animal health, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, and supporting preventive care, ensuring better outcomes for pets, livestock, and research animals worldwide.

More Trending Latest Reports By Polaris Market Research:

AI And Machine Learning Operationalization Software Market

Allergy Diagnostics and Therapeutics Market

Varicose Vein Treatment Market

Container Transshipment Market

Mirror Coatings Market

Dental Practice Management Software Market