Diagnostic imaging findings in animal abuse cases referred to the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Austria (2014-2023).

Animal abuse is an increasingly recognized societal concern, with growing emphasis on the role of veterinary teams in the identification and documentation of suspected abuse. Diagnostic imaging is pivotal in identifying hidden injuries, characterizing trauma patterns, and supporting medical and legal decision-making. This retrospective study analyzed diagnostic imaging in suspected animal abuse cases over a decade at the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna (Vetmeduni Vienna). Between 2014 and 2023, records and imaging archives of 11,689 companion and exotic animals, including cats, dogs, birds, lagomorphs, and reptiles, were reviewed. Large animals were excluded from this study. Cases were selected based on key abuse-related terms (e.g., animal abuse, gunshot wound, pellet, projectile) and the use of imaging modalities: radiography (x-ray), computed tomography (CT), ultrasonography (US), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). 83 cases were identified as suspected abuse, including 16 deceased animals, 14 of which underwent necropsy. Clinical and diagnostic histories were analyzed for all cases. Across species, predominant injuries included skeletal fractures and ballistic trauma, often multiple or combined. No cases utilized US or MRI for case qualification. Across all species, imaging revealed high rates of trauma, including fractures (common in dogs, cats, and reptiles) and ballistic injuries (most frequent in birds and dogs). CT was especially valuable in birds and reptiles due to anatomical complexity, while radiography was effective across all species. These findings demonstrate that diagnostic imaging provides objective, case-specific evidence that can guide clinical evaluation, document internal injuries, and support forensic investigations and legal proceedings.