Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Veterinary X-ray Tables for Veterinary Clinics, Hospitals, and Practices

In veterinary diagnostic imaging, the veterinary x-ray table is a fundamental element for the correct positioning of the animal during radiological examinations. Its function is to provide a stable and radiolucent surface, compatible with the image acquisition system, whether direct digital (DR, Digital Radiography) or cassette (CR, Computed Radiography). Unlike human patients, animals such as dogs, cats, and small mammals may show agitation, pain, or difficulty maintaining the required position for the examination. For this reason, a veterinary radiology table must combine mechanical stability, ease of use, and ergonomics, facilitating patient positioning and the work of veterinary staff. The presence of a radiolucent table helps limit interference in image formation, while the height-adjustable models facilitate the transfer of animals and the adaptation of the work surface. Depending on the configuration, the tables can integrate detector drawers, sliding tables, electric lifting systems and accessories for patient positioning. The Holity.co.uk catalogue offers a selection of professional veterinary radiology tables, available in fixed or adjustable height versions, with radiolucent HPL tabletops, steel structures and load capacities of up to 200 kg. This purchasing guide analyses the main technical characteristics, adjustment systems, materials, compatibility with x-ray detectors, operational safety and price ranges, to help veterinarians, clinic managers and hospital facilities identify the table best suited to their diagnostic needs.

1. Height Configuration: Fixed Height Tables vs Adjustable Height Tables

The choice between fixed-height and adjustable-height veterinary x-ray tables depends mainly on the type of animals treated, the frequency of examinations and the ergonomic needs of the operators. The height of the table influences the loading and positioning of the patient and the organisation of the space in the radiology room:

• Fixed-Height X-ray Tables: They are characterised by a work surface positioned at a pre-established height, which in professional models can be approximately between 80 and 85 cm from the ground, depending on the configuration. They represent a practical solution for veterinary practices, diagnostic studies and facilities that carry out x-ray examinations on small and medium-sized animals. The absence of motorised lifting mechanisms helps to simplify the structure and reduce the maintenance requirements of the moving components. The Holity.co.uk catalog offers fixed-height tables with a steel frame, a radiolucent HPL top, and a mobile drawer for the X-ray detector. Before purchasing, it is important to check the actual height of the table, the maximum load capacity, and the space required for positioning the animal.
• Height-Adjustable X-ray Tables (Electric Elevation): The height-adjustable veterinary X-ray tables are suitable for clinics, veterinary hospitals, and facilities that frequently perform examinations on animals of different sizes and physical conditions. In the motorized models, the lifting system allows the table to be lowered or raised using dedicated controls, the configuration of which varies depending on the product. Some versions use electric columns or battery-powered adjustment systems. The ability to lower the table makes it easier to transfer large dogs, elderly animals, or patients with mobility difficulties, reducing the effort required by staff. Once the animal has been positioned, the table can be adjusted to a more comfortable height for performing the examination. The adjustment range must be verified in the technical data sheet, as not all models reach the same minimum and maximum heights.

2. Table Kinematics: Fixed Table vs. 4-Direction Floating Table with Foot Brakes

The table movement system affects the convenience of anatomical positioning and the precision of radiographic centering. In veterinary X-ray tables, the possibility of moving the table or the detector holder drawer can facilitate the alignment of the region to be examined with the X-ray beam:

• Fixed Table with Sliding Drawer: In radiographic tables with a fixed table, the animal's support surface remains stable with respect to the supporting structure. The acquisition system can be housed in a sliding lower drawer, which allows the position of the detector to be changed without having to remove it completely from the table. This configuration is also present in various Holity.co.uk models, equipped with a radiolucent HPL tabletop and a mobile drawer for the X-ray detector. The system is practical for clinics that require functional and easy-to-use equipment. Correct centering of the exam, however, requires positioning the patient, detector, and X-ray source according to the projection to be performed.
• 4-Direction Floating Tabletop (Longitudinal and Transverse): X-ray tables equipped with a floating tabletop allow the support surface to be moved along the longitudinal and transverse axes, facilitating the alignment of the anatomical region to be examined. This solution can be particularly useful in diagnostic contexts in which it is necessary to perform different projections or limit the patient's movements. The tabletop must be moved in a controlled manner, ensuring that the animal is positioned safely. It is important to distinguish the floating tabletop from the simple sliding detector drawer: the two systems perform different functions and are not necessarily present at the same time. Before purchasing, it is therefore advisable to check the technical data sheet to see which movements are actually available.
• Mechanical and Electromagnetic Brakes with Pedal Control: In tables with mobile tops, locking systems allow the surface to be kept stable during positioning and image acquisition. Depending on the model, locking can occur via mechanical devices, dedicated controls or electromagnetic systems. Some configurations use pedals to facilitate operations without interrupting the operator's work. The presence and type of brakes must be verified in the product characteristics. A reliable locking system helps limit involuntary movements of the table, but does not replace the correct procedures for immobilizing and positioning the animal during the examination.

3. Radiological Support Surfaces: Radiolucency, Materials and Liquid Containment

The material of the table is one of the main elements to evaluate when choosing a professional veterinary x-ray table . An adequately radiolucent surface helps limit X-ray attenuation and obtain diagnostic images without interference from the support, while mechanical resistance and ease of cleaning are important for daily use:

• Aluminum Equivalence (Radiolucency): Radiolucency indicates the ability of the material to allow X-rays to pass through it with limited attenuation. This parameter can be expressed through aluminum equivalence, which allows the absorption of the X-ray beam by different materials to be compared. A table with adequate characteristics helps preserve image quality by limiting interference from the support surface. Actual radiolucency depends on the material, its thickness and the acquisition conditions. Before purchasing, it is advisable to consult the manufacturer's technical documentation, avoiding assigning an identical aluminum equivalency value to all tables. Exposure parameters must be defined based on the radiological equipment, the patient and the examination to be performed.
• High Density Polycarbonate and Layered HPL Laminates: The materials used for veterinary radiology table tops include high-pressure HPL laminates and specific polycarbonate configurations. These materials are chosen to combine mechanical resistance and radiolucency. The Holity.co.uk catalogue includes models with a radiolucent HPL top and versions with HPL/polycarbonate surfaces, designed for use during radiographic examinations. The quality of the top depends on the composition, thickness and support structure. It is important to check the usable dimensions, maximum load capacity and compatibility of the surface with the diagnostic procedures required by the clinic.
• Chemical Resistance and Hospital Hygiene: Veterinary radiology tables must be made with surfaces that are easy to clean and suitable for frequent use in surgeries and clinics. HPL or other technical material tops can offer good resistance to humidity and common cleaning products, depending on the specific characteristics of the covering. After each examination, it is important to remove any biological residues and proceed with cleaning and disinfection using products compatible with the material. To preserve the surface over time, it is advisable to avoid abrasive detergents, aggressive solvents, or treatments not recommended by the manufacturer. The presence of rounded edges and uniform surfaces can also facilitate daily maintenance operations.
• Lateral Guides and Strap Anchoring Notches: Some veterinary x-ray tables may be equipped with lateral guides, fixing points, or accessories to facilitate patient positioning. These elements allow the use, where appropriate, of positioning supports, radiolucent wedges, and other aids designed to keep the animal in the required position for the examination. The availability of guides and accessories varies by model and should be verified before purchase. It is important to use containment systems appropriate to the size and condition of the animal, avoiding excessive pressure or positions that may cause pain or discomfort.

4. Lower Bucky System: DR/CR Integration, Anti-diffusion Grids and Primary Shielding

The compartment located under the radiolucent plane is intended, in the models provided, to house the radiographic detector. The configuration of the detector drawer for veterinary radiological tables must be evaluated based on the acquisition system used in the structure and the characteristics of the X-ray equipment:

• Universal Receptor Drawer (Flat Panel DR and Cassette CR): Several veterinary radiological tables are equipped with a mobile or sliding drawer for housing the X-ray detector. This solution facilitates the positioning of the acquisition system under the radiolucent plane. Depending on the product features, the drawer can be set up for Flat Panel DR digital detectors or CR cassettes of different sizes, including popular formats such as 35 x 43 cm and 43 x 43 cm. However, compatibility should not be considered universal: it is necessary to check the internal dimensions of the compartment, any fixing supports and the space available for the connections of the wired detectors. In models with a dry drawer, movement occurs through mechanical sliding systems designed to facilitate positioning operations.
• Anti-scatter grid (Potter-Bucky): The anti-scatter grid is a component used in certain radiographic systems to limit the amount of scattered radiation that reaches the detector. It can help improve image contrast, especially when examining thicker anatomical regions. The characteristics of the grids vary according to the grid ratio, the density of the slats and the expected distance of use. The presence of an anti-scatter grid is not automatic in all veterinary X-ray tables and must be verified in the technical specifications. Its use must be evaluated in relation to the size of the animal, the anatomical region and the acquisition parameters, as a grid may require an adjustment of the exposure.
• Lower Lead Foil Shielding: Some X-ray tables may include shielding elements in the lower structure or in the detector compartment, designed to limit the transmission of radiation in certain directions. The presence of such components, as well as the thickness and characteristics of the shielding material, depends on the specific configuration of the product. Not all tables are equipped with integrated lower shielding and its presence does not replace the protective measures provided for the entire X-ray system. Before purchasing, it is advisable to check the manufacturer's documentation and the compatibility of the table with the existing X-ray system.

5. Operational Safety, Structural Stability and Maintenance of Veterinary X-ray Tables

The choice of a veterinary radiology table must also consider safety during animal positioning, the reliability of the movement mechanisms and ease of maintenance. Appropriate equipment helps to better organize diagnostic procedures and maintain stable operating conditions during use:

• Safety During Radiographic Examinations: The table must allow for correct patient positioning and alignment with the X-ray equipment, reducing the need for unnecessary movements. The presence of a radiolucent table and a correctly positioned acquisition system contributes to the quality of the examination. Overall safety, however, depends on the entire configuration of the radiology room, the characteristics of the equipment and the procedures adopted by the staff. The use of the table must therefore be accompanied by adequate systems for positioning the animal and by operating methods that limit unnecessary exposures and the need for repetitions of the examination.
• Electrical and Movement Systems Safety: In height-adjustable veterinary x-ray tables, it is important to check the operation of the motors, controls and any locking systems. Electric lift versions may be equipped with motorised columns, battery power or dedicated controls, depending on the model. During use, it is necessary to keep the areas affected by the table's movement free and check that there are no obstacles. Before purchasing, it is advisable to check the power supply characteristics, the adjustment range, the maintenance instructions and any stop functions provided by the manufacturer.
• Structural Load Capacity and Mechanical Testing: The load capacity represents an essential parameter for the stability of the table during positioning and carrying out x-ray examinations. The Holity.co.uk catalogue includes models with maximum load capacities of 150 kg and 200 kg, suitable for animals of different sizes. The choice must consider the patient's weight, the size of the table and the expected conditions of use. It is important to respect the load capacity declared by the manufacturer and to periodically check the stability of the structure, the correct functioning of any adjustable feet, braked wheels and lifting mechanisms. Regular maintenance helps to preserve the reliability of the equipment over time.

6. Economic Analysis and Cost Ranges

The price of veterinary x-ray tables varies according to the type of structure, height adjustment, size of the table, load capacity and characteristics of the detector holder system. The Holity.co.uk catalogue includes professional models with indicative prices between €1,095.25 and €2,619.15 + VAT. The following price ranges allow you to compare the main available solutions, keeping in mind that the actual price depends on the model and any offers applied:

• Entry level range (€1,095.25 - €1,600.00): Mainly includes fixed-height veterinary X-ray tables with a steel structure, HPL radiolucent top and mobile drawer for the X-ray detector. This range includes models with a top measuring approximately 160 x 65 cm and a load capacity of 150 kg, suitable for veterinary practices and facilities requiring a functional solution for radiographic examinations. Configurations with additional features, such as adjustable feet or height adjustment systems, are also available, according to product specifications. To correctly compare the models, it is important to check the included equipment and compatibility with the acquisition system already present in the facility.
• Top of the Range (€1,600.00 - €2,619.15): Includes height-adjustable veterinary radiology tables, models with electric lifting columns and configurations with tilting top. This range includes tables with a capacity of up to 200 kg, radiolucent HPL or HPL/polycarbonate tops and sliding drawers for the X-ray detector. Some versions include battery-powered adjustment systems, double electric columns or adjustable supports for portable X-ray equipment. These solutions are particularly suitable for clinics, veterinary hospitals and diagnostic facilities that require greater versatility in positioning animals and organising examinations.

Request a personalised quote on Holity.co.uk

Organise your radiology room in the best possible way and choose the professional veterinary X-ray tables that best suit the needs of your facility. On Holity.co.uk you can compare different models of veterinary X-ray tables, evaluating the type of height, the materials of the radiolucent table, the maximum load capacity and the presence of detector drawers. Explore the online catalogue to identify the most suitable configuration: choose between fixed and adjustable height tables, check the dimensions of the table and check compatibility with your Flat Panel DR digital acquisition system or with CR cassettes. The technical data sheets allow you to compare the characteristics of the individual products and select the most suitable equipment for the diagnostic activities of your veterinary practice or hospital.

Request a personalized quote: the Holity.co.uk sales team is available to provide information on the characteristics of veterinary x-ray tables, on the available technical documentation and on the most suitable solutions for professional supplies and orders of multiple units.