Veterinary Imaging Services Market, Global Outlook and Forecast 2025-2032

MARKET INSIGHTS

Global veterinary imaging services market size was valued at USD 1.83 billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 1.97 billion in 2025 to USD 3.02 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.6% during the forecast period.

Veterinary imaging services are specialized diagnostic procedures utilizing technologies like X-ray, ultrasound, CT scans and MRI to examine animal anatomy and physiology. These services enable veterinarians to accurately diagnose conditions ranging from fractures to tumors while minimizing invasive procedures. The field continues to evolve with digital radiography systems and portable ultrasound devices gaining prominence in clinical practice.

Market growth is driven by rising pet adoption rates globally and increasing expenditure on animal healthcare. The UK saw 54% growth in veterinary service spending between 2015-2021, reaching USD 4 billion. China's pet medical market alone accounts for USD 67.5 billion, with aging pet populations creating sustained demand for diagnostic services. Leading players including IDEXX Laboratories and GE Healthcare are investing in AI-powered imaging solutions, while newer entrants like Clarius Mobile Health are developing compact, affordable devices for small practices.

MARKET DYNAMICS

MARKET DRIVERS

Rising Pet Ownership and Humanization Trend to Accelerate Market Growth

The global veterinary imaging services market is experiencing robust growth driven by increasing pet ownership and the humanization of pets. Pets are increasingly viewed as family members, leading to higher expenditure on their healthcare needs. Recent data indicates that annual spending on veterinary services in the UK grew by 54% between 2015 and 2021, reaching 4 billion. This trend is mirrored globally, with the pet medical care segment becoming the second largest in the pet industry. As pet owners become more willing to invest in advanced diagnostics, demand for veterinary imaging services including ultrasound, X-ray, and CT scans continues to rise.

Aging Pet Population to Fuel Demand for Diagnostic Imaging

Another significant driver is the growing population of aging pets requiring specialized medical attention. In China alone, over 13 million pets entered middle or old age in 2023, creating substantial demand for diagnostic services to manage age-related conditions. Veterinary imaging plays a critical role in early detection of arthritis, cancers, and other degenerative diseases common in senior pets. With approximately 40% of pet hospitals reporting increased annual turnover, the market shows strong potential for continued expansion as this demographic shift continues.

➤ The China Pet Medical Industry White Paper reveals pet hospitals operational for over 10 years achieve higher revenues, demonstrating increasing maturity of veterinary diagnostic services.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

High Equipment Costs and Operational Expenses Limit Market Penetration

While demand grows, the veterinary imaging market faces significant barriers due to the high capital investment required for advanced imaging equipment. State-of-the-art CT or MRI systems can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, creating financial challenges for smaller veterinary practices. This is particularly evident in emerging markets where approximately 73% of pet hospitals have been operational for less than five years and may lack capital for major equipment purchases. The substantial maintenance costs and need for specialized facilities further compound these financial constraints.

Other Restraints

Regulatory Complexities
Stringent regulatory requirements for veterinary imaging equipment approval create lengthy and costly compliance processes. These regulations, while necessary for patient safety, can delay market entry for new technologies and increase overall costs for providers.

Limited Reimbursement Policies
Unlike human healthcare, veterinary services typically lack comprehensive insurance coverage, making advanced imaging procedures cost-prohibitive for many pet owners. This financial barrier significantly impacts service utilization rates across price-sensitive markets.

MARKET CHALLENGES

Workforce Shortages and Training Gaps Impede Service Expansion

The industry faces a critical shortage of veterinarians trained in advanced imaging techniques. As imaging technologies become more sophisticated, the need for specialized skills in interpretation and operation grows. However, veterinary schools often lack comprehensive imaging programs, creating a talent gap. This shortage is exacerbated by the rapid growth of the pet healthcare sector, with demand for skilled professionals outpacing supply.

Technical Challenges
Portability remains a significant hurdle for certain imaging modalities. While digital radiography systems have become more compact, advanced imaging equipment like MRI machines still require dedicated space and infrastructure. Furthermore, adapting human imaging technologies for veterinary use presents unique anatomical and physiological challenges that require specialized solutions.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Technological Advancements to Create New Growth Frontiers

Emerging technologies present significant opportunities for market expansion. Portable ultrasound devices and wireless digital radiography systems are gaining traction, enabling point-of-care diagnostics in field settings. Artificial intelligence-assisted image analysis is another promising area, with potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy and reduce interpretation time. These innovations are particularly valuable for rural veterinary practices and mobile clinics seeking to expand their service offerings.

Strategic Partnerships to Drive Market Expansion

Collaborations between imaging manufacturers and veterinary chains offer substantial growth potential. Several leading companies have initiated training programs to build imaging capabilities among veterinary practitioners. Such partnerships not only drive equipment adoption but also help standardize diagnostic protocols across the industry. With the global animal health market valued at over 38 billion, these strategic initiatives position participants to capitalize on the growing demand for advanced veterinary care.

Segment Analysis:

By Type

Ultrasound Segment Leads Due to Its Non-Invasive Nature and Diagnostic Versatility

The market is segmented based on type into:

• Ultrasound

  • Subtypes: 2D, 3D/4D, Doppler, and others

• X-Ray

  • Subtypes: Digital radiography, Computed radiography, and others

• CT

• MRI

• Others

By Application

Pet Hospitals Dominate with Rising Pet Healthcare Expenditure Worldwide

The market is segmented based on application into:

• Pet hospitals

• Veterinary clinics

• Academic and research institutions

• Livestock farms

• Others

By Animal Type

Companion Animals Segment Expands with Growing Pet Humanization Trends

The market is segmented based on animal type into:

• Companion animals

  • Subtypes: Dogs, Cats, and others

• Livestock animals

• Exotic animals

By Technology

Digital Imaging Gains Traction Due to Superior Image Quality and Storage Capabilities

The market is segmented based on technology into:

• Digital imaging

• Analog imaging

• Portable imaging systems

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Industry Players

Innovation and Expansion Define Veterinary Imaging Market Competition

The global veterinary imaging services market features a moderately fragmented competitive landscape, with a mix of established medical imaging giants and specialized veterinary diagnostic companies vying for market share. IDEXX Laboratories currently leads the segment, capturing approximately 18% of the market revenue in 2024 through its comprehensive suite of diagnostic imaging solutions and extensive global distribution network. The company's recent acquisition of ezyVet software has strengthened its integrated practice management offerings, creating synergies between imaging services and veterinary workflows.

GE Healthcare and Siemens Healthineers maintain significant positions by adapting human medical imaging technologies for veterinary applications. These multinationals leverage their robust R&D capabilities to develop specialized veterinary MRI and CT systems, with GE launching its portable veterinary ultrasound series in early 2024 to capture the growing mobile veterinary services market.

Several mid-sized players are making strategic moves to differentiate themselves. Esaote SpA has gained traction in Europe with its high-frequency ultrasound systems, while FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation has expanded into veterinary digital radiography through partnerships with animal hospitals. The competitive intensity has increased as these companies invest in artificial intelligence-powered image analysis—a trend that's reshaping diagnostic accuracy and workflow efficiency.

Emerging players like Clarius Mobile Health and EPICA Animal Health are disrupting the market with handheld and wireless imaging devices, particularly popular among small veterinary practices. These technological advancements, combined with rising pet healthcare expenditure globally, suggest the competitive landscape will continue evolving rapidly through 2032.

List of Key Veterinary Imaging Service Providers

• IDEXX Laboratories (U.S.)

• GE Healthcare (U.S.)

• Siemens Healthineers (Germany)

• IMV imaging (U.K.)

• Esaote SpA (Italy)

• FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation (Japan)

• Agfa-Gevaert NV (Belgium)

• Carestream Health (U.S.)

• Mindray Medical International (China)

• EI Medical Imaging (U.S.)

• Clarius Mobile Health (Canada)

• Shenzhen Ricso Technology (China)

• EPICA Animal Health (U.S.)

• ClearVet Digital Radiography Systems (U.S.)

VETERINARY IMAGING SERVICES MARKET TRENDS

Adoption of Portable and Wireless Imaging Systems Transforms Veterinary Diagnostics

The veterinary imaging services market is witnessing a paradigm shift with the increasing adoption of portable and wireless imaging systems. These advanced solutions offer unparalleled flexibility in veterinary practices, enabling diagnostics in remote locations and emergency situations. The global market for veterinary imaging is projected to grow at a robust CAGR of 7.6% from 2024–2032, with portable ultrasonography devices accounting for over 30% of equipment sales in 2024. Technological advancements such as high-frequency transducers and AI-powered image enhancement have significantly improved diagnostic accuracy in small animal practices.

Other Trends

Growing Demand for Advanced Imaging in Geriatric Pet Care

With over 13 million pets entering middle and senior age in China alone, the demand for sophisticated diagnostic imaging is surging. Age-related conditions such as osteoarthritis, organ dysfunction, and cancers require precise imaging modalities like CT and MRI for early detection. Veterinary hospitals report increased utilization of contrast-enhanced imaging, with approximately 40% of facilities now offering specialized geriatric imaging protocols. This demographic shift is particularly pronounced in developed markets where pet insurance adoption exceeds 25% in countries like Sweden and the UK.

Integration of AI and Cloud-Based Solutions

The veterinary imaging sector is embracing AI-driven diagnostic support systems that can automatically detect abnormalities in radiographs and ultrasound images. Cloud-based PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication Systems) now facilitate seamless sharing of diagnostic images between primary care veterinarians and specialists, reducing referral times by up to 60%. Market leaders are investing heavily in deep learning algorithms specifically trained on veterinary datasets, with some systems demonstrating 95% accuracy in fracture detection. Furthermore, telemedicine platforms incorporating imaging capabilities are gaining traction, particularly in rural areas where specialist access is limited.

Regional Analysis: Veterinary Imaging Services Market

North America
North America dominates the veterinary imaging services market, accounting for the largest revenue share of approximately 38% in 2024. The region benefits from high pet ownership rates (67% of U.S. households own pets) and widespread pet insurance coverage, which facilitates advanced diagnostic spending. Technological adoption is rapid, with digital radiography and portable ultrasound becoming standard in most clinics. However, rising equipment costs and shortage of specialized veterinary radiologists pose challenges. The market is consolidating, with corporate-owned veterinary chains increasingly investing in imaging centers - a trend accelerating since 2020.

Europe
Europe represents the second-largest market, with Germany and the UK leading in diagnostic innovation. Strict animal welfare regulations and 90%+ penetration of pet health insurance in some Nordic countries drive premium service demand. The region shows particular strength in equine and livestock imaging due to strong agricultural sectors. Brexit has caused some supply chain disruptions for UK clinics sourcing EU-manufactured equipment, though cross-border specialist referral networks remain active. Eastern Europe is emerging as a growth hotspot as disposable incomes rise and pet humanization trends spread.

Asia-Pacific
APAC is the fastest-growing market, projected to exceed a 9.2% CAGR through 2032. China's market alone has tripled since 2018 due to explosive pet ownership growth (91 million pets in 2023), while Japan's aging pet population drives chronic disease diagnostics. India shows potential but faces infrastructure gaps, with less than 15% of veterinary clinics equipped with advanced imaging. The region displays stark contrasts between high-tech metropolitan animal hospitals and rural areas with minimal diagnostic access. Local manufacturers like Mindray are gaining share by offering cost-competitive alternatives to Western brands.

South America
Brazil captures over 60% of the regional market, with its large livestock industry supporting demand for bovine imaging services. While companion animal imaging is growing among urban elites, economic instability limits broader market expansion. Many clinics rely on refurbished equipment imports due to import taxes exceeding 30% on new devices. Argentina shows promise in equine imaging for its substantial horse breeding industry, though currency fluctuations deter capital investments in veterinary infrastructure.

Middle East & Africa
This region remains undeveloped but displays pockets of growth in Gulf states where luxury pet care flourishes. The UAE has seen a 200% increase in companion imaging procedures since 2019, driven by expatriate communities. Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 includes developing veterinary services as part of healthcare modernization. Africa's market is constrained by few trained specialists, though mobile ultrasound services show promise for rural livestock care. Political instability in some nations continues to deter major equipment manufacturers from establishing local distribution.

Report Scope

This market research report offers a holistic overview of global and regional markets for the forecast period 2025–2032. It presents accurate and actionable insights based on a blend of primary and secondary research.

Key Coverage Areas:

• ✅ Market Overview

  • Global and regional market size (historical & forecast)

  • Growth trends and value/volume projections

• ✅ Segmentation Analysis

  • By product type or category

  • By application or usage area

  • By end-user industry

  • By distribution channel (if applicable)

• ✅ Regional Insights

  • North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa

  • Country-level data for key markets

• ✅ Competitive Landscape

  • Company profiles and market share analysis

  • Key strategies: M&A, partnerships, expansions

  • Product portfolio and pricing strategies

• ✅ Technology & Innovation

  • Emerging technologies and R&D trends

  • Automation, digitalization, sustainability initiatives

  • Impact of AI, IoT, or other disruptors (where applicable)

• ✅ Market Dynamics

  • Key drivers supporting market growth

  • Restraints and potential risk factors

  • Supply chain trends and challenges

• ✅ Opportunities & Recommendations

  • High-growth segments

  • Investment hotspots

  • Strategic suggestions for stakeholders

• ✅ Stakeholder Insights

  • Target audience includes manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, investors, regulators, and policymakers

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What is the current market size of Global Veterinary Imaging Services Market?

-> The global veterinary imaging services market was valued at USD 1,831 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 3,017 million by 2032.

Which key companies operate in Global Veterinary Imaging Services Market?

-> Key players include IMV imaging, IDEXX Laboratories, Esaote SpA, GE Healthcare, Agfa-Gevaert NV, Carestream Health, Mindray Medical International, Siemens Healthineers, and FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation, among others.

What are the key growth drivers?

-> Key growth drivers include rising pet ownership, increasing pet healthcare expenditure, aging pet population, and technological advancements in veterinary diagnostics.

Which region dominates the market?

-> North America currently leads the market, while Asia-Pacific is expected to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period.

What are the emerging trends?

-> Emerging trends include AI-powered diagnostic tools, portable imaging devices, telemedicine integration, and increasing adoption of digital radiography.