What does a CT scan machine look like. How does a CAT scan work. What are the main differences between CT and MRI scans. What should patients expect during a CT scan procedure. How do CT scans help in medical diagnosis.

Understanding CT Scan Machines: Technology and Appearance

A CT (Computerized Tomography) scan machine, also known as a CAT (Computerized Axial Tomography) scanner, is a sophisticated medical imaging device that combines X-ray technology with advanced computer processing. But what exactly does a CT scan machine look like?

Typically, a CT scanner resembles a large, doughnut-shaped machine. The central opening, often called the gantry, is where the patient lies on a motorized examination table that slides in and out of the scanner. The machine’s circular design houses the X-ray tube and detectors that rotate around the patient during the scan.

Modern CT scanners are designed with patient comfort in mind. They often feature:

• A wide bore (opening) to reduce feelings of claustrophobia
• Soft lighting and sometimes even ambient music to create a calming environment
• Quick scanning capabilities to minimize the time patients spend inside the machine
• Advanced software that reduces radiation exposure while maintaining image quality

The Inner Workings of CT Scan Technology

How does a CT scan actually work? Unlike traditional X-rays that send a single radiation beam through the body, CT scanners emit multiple narrow beams as they rotate around the patient. This process creates cross-sectional images or “slices” of the body.

The key components of CT scan technology include:

1. X-ray tube: Generates the X-ray beams
2. Detector array: Captures the X-rays after they pass through the body
3. Computer system: Processes the data to create detailed images
4. Display monitor: Shows the resulting images for analysis

CT scanners can detect hundreds of different density levels, allowing them to distinguish between various types of tissue within solid organs. This capability makes CT scans invaluable for diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions.

CT Scan Applications: From Diagnosis to Treatment Planning

CT scans have revolutionized medical imaging, offering detailed views of internal structures that were previously difficult or impossible to visualize non-invasively. What are some common applications of CT scans in modern medicine?

CT scans are frequently used to:

• Diagnose and stage various types of cancer
• Detect internal injuries after trauma
• Evaluate bone and joint problems
• Guide biopsies and other minimally invasive procedures
• Plan radiation therapy treatments
• Monitor the effectiveness of ongoing treatments

In emergency situations, CT scans can quickly reveal internal bleeding or organ damage, allowing for rapid and appropriate treatment. For complex medical conditions, CT scans often provide the detailed information necessary for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.

Preparing for a CT Scan: Patient Guidelines and Expectations

Preparing for a CT scan is generally straightforward, but there are some important considerations. How should patients prepare for their CT scan appointment?

Before the scan:

• Follow any fasting instructions provided by your healthcare provider
• Inform your doctor of any allergies, especially to contrast materials
• Remove all metal objects, including jewelry and clothing with metal fasteners
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing without metal components

During the scan:

• You’ll lie on a motorized table that moves into the scanner
• The technologist will position you correctly for the images
• You’ll need to remain still during the scan to ensure clear images
• The scan itself is painless and typically takes only a few minutes

In some cases, you may be asked to drink a contrast solution or receive an intravenous contrast injection to enhance the visibility of certain structures. Your healthcare provider will discuss this with you if it’s necessary for your particular scan.

CT Scan vs. MRI: Understanding the Differences

While both CT scans and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) are powerful diagnostic tools, they use different technologies and have distinct advantages in various situations. What are the key differences between CT and MRI scans?

• Technology: CT scans use X-rays, while MRI uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves
• Scan time: CT scans are generally faster, making them better for emergency situations
• Image detail: MRI provides better soft tissue contrast, while CT excels at imaging bone structures
• Radiation exposure: CT scans involve ionizing radiation, while MRI does not
• Contraindications: MRI cannot be used for patients with certain metal implants or devices

The choice between CT and MRI often depends on the specific medical condition being investigated. For example, CT is typically preferred for:

• Evaluating lung conditions
• Detecting acute internal injuries
• Diagnosing certain types of cancer
• Assessing complex fractures

On the other hand, MRI is often the modality of choice for:

• Examining brain and spinal cord abnormalities
• Evaluating soft tissue injuries in joints
• Detecting subtle changes in organs
• Investigating certain types of heart problems

Advancements in CT Scan Technology: Improving Diagnosis and Patient Care

CT scan technology has come a long way since its introduction in the 1970s. What are some recent advancements in CT scanning that have improved patient care and diagnostic accuracy?

• Dual-energy CT: Allows for better tissue characterization and reduced artifacts
• Spectral CT: Provides additional information about tissue composition
• Ultra-high resolution CT: Offers incredibly detailed images for specific applications
• Artificial Intelligence integration: Enhances image quality and assists in diagnosis
• Low-dose protocols: Significantly reduce radiation exposure without compromising image quality

These advancements have expanded the capabilities of CT scanning, allowing for more accurate diagnoses, reduced radiation exposure, and improved patient outcomes. For example, cardiac CT angiography now provides detailed images of coronary arteries, often eliminating the need for more invasive procedures.

Safety Considerations and Potential Side Effects of CT Scans

While CT scans are generally safe and painless, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and side effects. What should patients know about CT scan safety?

The primary concern with CT scans is radiation exposure. Although the risk from a single CT scan is low, repeated scans can increase the lifetime risk of cancer. However, this risk must be balanced against the substantial medical benefits of CT scans in diagnosing and monitoring serious conditions.

Potential side effects and risks include:

• Allergic reactions to contrast materials (rare but can be serious)
• Kidney problems from contrast materials in patients with pre-existing kidney issues
• Increased lifetime cancer risk from cumulative radiation exposure
• Incidental findings that may lead to unnecessary further testing or anxiety

To minimize risks, healthcare providers:

• Use CT scans only when medically necessary
• Adjust radiation doses based on patient size and the area being scanned
• Use alternative imaging methods when appropriate
• Carefully screen patients for contrast material allergies and kidney problems

It’s crucial for patients to discuss the benefits and risks of CT scans with their healthcare providers. In most cases, the diagnostic benefits of a medically necessary CT scan far outweigh the potential risks.

The Future of CT Scanning: Emerging Technologies and Trends

As medical imaging technology continues to evolve, what can we expect from the next generation of CT scanners? Several exciting developments are on the horizon:

• Photon-counting CT: This technology promises to revolutionize CT imaging by providing higher resolution, lower radiation doses, and improved tissue characterization
• 4D CT imaging: Allows for dynamic imaging of moving structures, particularly useful in cardiac and respiratory imaging
• Advanced AI integration: Machine learning algorithms will continue to improve image quality, reduce artifacts, and assist in diagnosis
• Portable CT scanners: Smaller, more mobile CT units could bring advanced imaging capabilities to remote areas or emergency situations
• Hybrid imaging systems: Combining CT with other modalities like PET (Positron Emission Tomography) for more comprehensive diagnostic information

These advancements aim to further enhance the diagnostic capabilities of CT scans while minimizing radiation exposure and improving patient comfort. As technology progresses, we can expect CT scanning to become even more integral to modern healthcare, providing increasingly detailed and actionable medical information.

CT Scans in Specialized Medical Fields

CT scanning technology has found applications across various medical specialties. How are CT scans used in different areas of medicine?

In oncology:

• Detecting and staging cancers
• Guiding biopsies
• Monitoring treatment response
• Planning radiation therapy

In cardiology:

• Assessing coronary artery disease
• Evaluating heart structure and function
• Detecting congenital heart defects

In neurology:

• Diagnosing stroke
• Detecting brain tumors
• Evaluating head injuries

In orthopedics:

• Assessing complex fractures
• Diagnosing spinal problems
• Evaluating joint disorders

These specialized applications demonstrate the versatility and importance of CT scanning in modern medicine, enabling precise diagnoses and tailored treatment plans across a wide range of medical conditions.

CT Scan Interpretation: The Role of Radiologists

While CT scanners produce detailed images, interpreting these images requires specialized expertise. What is the role of radiologists in CT scan interpretation?

Radiologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases using medical imaging technologies. Their role in CT scan interpretation includes:

• Analyzing CT images to identify abnormalities
• Correlating findings with patient history and other diagnostic information
• Recommending further tests or procedures if necessary
• Collaborating with other healthcare providers to guide patient care
• Ensuring appropriate use of CT technology and radiation safety

The expertise of radiologists is crucial in maximizing the diagnostic value of CT scans while minimizing unnecessary radiation exposure. As imaging technology advances, radiologists continue to play a vital role in translating complex medical images into actionable clinical information.

CT Scans in Emergency Medicine: Rapid Diagnosis for Critical Care

In emergency situations, rapid and accurate diagnosis can be lifesaving. How do CT scans contribute to emergency medical care?

CT scans are invaluable in emergency settings for:

• Quickly identifying internal injuries after trauma
• Diagnosing acute stroke and determining appropriate treatment
• Detecting life-threatening conditions like aortic dissection or pulmonary embolism
• Evaluating severe abdominal pain to identify conditions requiring immediate surgery
• Assessing complex fractures to guide orthopedic interventions

The speed and detail provided by CT scans allow emergency physicians to make rapid, informed decisions about patient care. In many cases, CT findings can determine whether a patient needs immediate surgery or can be managed conservatively, significantly impacting patient outcomes in critical situations.

Patient Experience: Addressing Concerns and Ensuring Comfort

Undergoing a CT scan can be anxiety-inducing for some patients. How do healthcare providers address patient concerns and ensure a comfortable experience?

Strategies to improve the patient experience include:

• Clear communication about the procedure and its importance
• Addressing fears about radiation exposure and explaining safety measures
• Providing a calm and welcoming environment in the scanning room
• Offering options like music or aromatherapy to reduce anxiety
• Using pediatric-friendly protocols and environments for young patients
• Ensuring privacy and comfort during preparation and the scan itself

Many facilities now employ patient-centered approaches to medical imaging, recognizing that a positive experience can contribute to better overall healthcare outcomes. By addressing concerns and prioritizing comfort, healthcare providers can help ensure that patients receive the full benefits of CT scanning technology.

Cost Considerations and Insurance Coverage for CT Scans

While CT scans are invaluable diagnostic tools, cost can be a concern for many patients. What factors influence the cost of CT scans, and how is insurance coverage typically handled?

Factors affecting CT scan costs include:

• The type of scan and body part being examined
• Whether contrast material is used
• The facility where the scan is performed (hospital vs. outpatient imaging center)
• Geographic location
• Radiologist fees for interpretation

Insurance coverage for CT scans varies depending on the policy and the medical necessity of the scan. Most insurance plans cover medically necessary CT scans, but patients may be responsible for copayments or deductibles. It’s important for patients to:

• Check with their insurance provider about coverage details
• Obtain pre-authorization if required by their insurance plan
• Discuss any financial concerns with their healthcare provider or the imaging facility
• Inquire about payment plans or financial assistance programs if needed

Understanding the cost implications and insurance coverage for CT scans can help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare and avoid unexpected financial burdens.

CT scan or CAT scan: How does it work?

A computerized tomography (CT) or computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan combines data from several X-rays to produce a detailed image of structures inside the body.

CT scans produce 2-dimensional images of a “slice” or section of the body, but the data can also be used to construct 3-dimensional images. A CT scan can be compared to looking at one slice of bread within a whole loaf.

CT scans are used in hospitals worldwide.

A CT scanner emits a series of narrow beams through the human body as it moves through an arc.

This is different from an X-ray machine, which sends just one radiation beam. The CT scan produces a more detailed final picture than an X-ray image.

The CT scanner’s X-ray detector can see hundreds of different levels of density. It can see tissues within a solid organ.

This data is transmitted to a computer, which builds up a 3-D cross-sectional picture of the part of the body and displays it on the screen.

Sometimes, a contrast dye is used because it can help show certain structures more clearly.

For instance, if a 3-D image of the abdomen is required, the patient may have to drink a barium meal. The barium appears white on the scan as it travels through the digestive system.

If images lower down the body are required, such as the rectum, the patient may be given a barium enema. If blood vessel images are the target, a contrast agent will be injected into the veins.

The accuracy and speed of CT scans may be improved with the application of spiral CT, a relatively new technology. The beam takes a spiral path during the scanning, so it gathers continuous data with no gaps between images.

CT is a useful tool for assisting diagnosis in medicine, but it is a source of ionizing radiation, and it can potentially cause cancer.

The National Cancer Institute advise patients to discuss the risks and benefits of CT scans with their doctors.

Share on PinterestA CT scan can detect abnormalities in the soft tissue.

It is useful for obtaining images of:

• soft tissues
• the pelvis
• blood vessels
• lungs
• brain
• abdomen
• bones

CT is often the preferred way of diagnosing many cancers, such as liver, lung, and pancreatic cancers.

The image allows a doctor to confirm the presence and location of a tumor, its size, and how much it has affected nearby tissue.

A scan of the head can provide important information about the brain, for instance, if there is any bleeding, swelling of the arteries, or a tumor.

A CT scan can reveal a tumor in the abdomen, and any swelling or inflammation in nearby internal organs. It can show any lacerations of the spleen, kidneys, or liver.

As a CT scan detects abnormal tissue, it is useful for planning areas for radiotherapy and biopsies, and it can provide valuable data on blood flow and other vascular conditions.

It can help a doctor assess bone diseases, bone density, and the state of the patient’s spine.

It can also provide vital data about injuries to a patient’s hands, feet, and other skeletal structures. Even small bones are clearly visible, as well as their surrounding tissue.

CT versus MRI

The main differences between CT and MRI are:

• A CT scan uses X-rays, but an MRI uses magnets and radio waves.
• Unlike an MRI, a CT scan does not show tendons and ligaments.
• MRI is better for examining the spinal cord.
• A CT scan is better suited to cancer, pneumonia, abnormal chest x-rays, bleeding in the brain, especially after an injury.
• A brain tumor is more clearly visible on MRI.
• A CT scan shows organ tear and organ injury more quickly, so it may be more suitable for trauma cases.
• Broken bones and vertebrae are more clearly visible on a CT scan.
• CT scans provide a better image of the lungs and organs in the chest cavity between the lungs.

The patient may need to abstain from food, and possibly drink, for a specific period before the scan.

On the day

In most places, the patient will need to undress, usually down to their underwear, and put on a gown that the health center will provide. Avoid wearing jewelry.

If the hospital does not provide a gown, the patient should wear loose-fitting clothes free of metal buttons and zippers.

Some patients may have to drink a contrast dye, or the dye may be given as an enema, or injected.This improves the picture of some blood vessels or tissues.

Any patient who has an allergy to contrast material should tell the doctor beforehand. Some medications can reduce allergic reactions to contrast materials.

As metal interferes with the workings of the CT scanner, the patient will need to remove all jewelry and metal fastenings.

During the scan

The patient will need to lie down on a motorized examination table that slides into a doughnut-shaped CT scanner machine.

In most cases, the patient will lie on their back, facing up. But, sometimes, they may need to lie facedown or sideways.

After one x-ray picture, the couch will move slightly, and then the machine will take another image, and so on. The patient needs to lie very still for the best results.

During the scan, everybody except for the patient will leave the room. An intercom will enable two-way communication between the radiographer and the patient.

If the patient is a child, a parent or adult might be allowed to stand or sit nearby, but they will have to wear a lead apron to prevent radiation exposure.

Share on PinterestThe doctor should explain why the scan is needed, any other options available, and the pros and cons of having a CT scan.

A CT scan involves a small, targeted dose of radiation.

These levels of radiation, even in people who have undergone several scans, has not proven to be harmful.

The chance of developing cancer as the result of a CT scan is thought to be less than 1 in 2,000.

The amount of radiation involved is estimated to be around the same as a person would be exposed to in a space of between several months and several years of natural exposure in the environment.

A scan is only given if there is a clear medical reason to do so. The results can lead to treatment for conditions that could otherwise be serious. When the decision is taken to perform a scan, doctors will ensure that the benefits outweigh any risk.

Problems that could possibly arise from radiation exposure include cancer and thyroid issues.

This is extremely unlikely in adults, and also unlikely in children. However, are more susceptible to the effects of radiation. This does not mean that health issues will result, but any CT scans should be noted on the child’s medical record.

In some cases, only a CT scan can show the required results. For some conditions, an ultrasound or MRI might be possible.

Can I have a CT scan if I am pregnant?

Any woman who suspects she may be pregnant should tell her doctor beforehand, because there is a risk that the x-rays could harm the fetus.

Citing the American College of Radiography, the American Pregnancy Association (APA) point out that “No single diagnostic x-ray has a radiation dose significant enough to cause adverse effects in a developing embryo or fetus. ”

However, the APA notes that CT scans are not recommended for pregnant women, “Unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risk.”

CT scans and breastfeeding

If a lactating, or breastfeeding, mother needs an iodinated intravenous dye for contrast, she should avoid breastfeeding for about 24 hours as may pass into the breast milk.

I have claustrophobia: Can I have a CT scan?

A patient who has claustrophobia should tell their doctor or radiographer beforehand. The patient may be given an injection or tablet to calm them down before the scan.

Your health care provider will usually be able to recommend a suitable facility for a scan. You can check if a radiologist is accredited by searching on the website of the American College of Radiology.

Computed Tomography (CT)

• What is a computed tomography (CT) scan?
• How does CT work?
• When would I get a CT scan?
• What is a CT contrast agent?
• Are there risks?
• What are examples of NIBIB-funded projects using CT?

What is a computed tomography (CT) scan?

The term “computed tomography,” or CT, refers to a computerized x-ray imaging procedure in which a narrow beam of x-rays is aimed at a patient and quickly rotated around the body, producing signals that are processed by the machine’s computer to generate cross-sectional images, or “slices. ” These slices are called tomographic images and can give a clinician more detailed information than conventional x-rays. Once a number of successive slices are collected by the machine’s computer, they can be digitally “stacked” together to form a three-dimensional (3D) image of the patient that allows for easier identification of basic structures as well as possible tumors or abnormalities.

How does CT work?

A CT machine. Credit: iStock

Unlike a conventional x-ray—which uses a fixed x-ray tube—a CT scanner uses a motorized x-ray source that rotates around the circular opening of a donut-shaped structure called a gantry. During a CT scan, the patient lies on a bed that slowly moves through the gantry while the x-ray tube rotates around the patient, shooting narrow beams of x-rays through the body. Instead of film, CT scanners use special digital x-ray detectors, which are located directly opposite the x-ray source. As the x-rays leave the patient, they are picked up by the detectors and transmitted to a computer.

Each time the x-ray source completes one full rotation, the CT computer uses sophisticated mathematical techniques to construct a two-dimensional image slice of the patient. The thickness of the tissue represented in each image slice can vary depending on the CT machine used, but usually ranges from 1-10 millimeters. When a full slice is completed, the image is stored and the motorized bed is moved forward incrementally into the gantry. The x-ray scanning process is then repeated to produce another image slice. This process continues until the desired number of slices is collected.

Image slices can either be displayed individually or stacked together by the computer to generate a 3D image of the patient that shows the skeleton, organs, and tissues as well as any abnormalities the physician is trying to identify. This method has many advantages including the ability to rotate the 3D image in space or to view slices in succession, making it easier to find the exact place where a problem may be located.

When would I get a CT scan?

CT scans can be used to identify disease or injury within various regions of the body. For example, CT has become a useful screening tool for detecting possible tumors or lesions within the abdomen. A CT scan of the heart may be ordered when various types of heart disease or abnormalities are suspected. CT can also be used to image the head in order to locate injuries, tumors, clots leading to stroke, hemorrhage, and other conditions. It can image the lungs in order to reveal the presence of tumors, pulmonary embolisms (blood clots), excess fluid, and other conditions such as emphysema or pneumonia. A CT scan is particularly useful when imaging complex bone fractures, severely eroded joints, or bone tumors since it usually produces more detail than would be possible with a conventional x-ray.

What is a CT contrast agent?

CT scan of the abdomen. Credit: iStock

As with all x-rays, dense structures within the body—such as bone—are easily imaged, whereas soft tissues vary in their ability to stop x-rays and therefore may be faint or difficult to see. For this reason, contrast agents have been developed that are highly visible in an x-ray or CT scan and are safe to use in patients. Contrast agents contain substances that can stop x-rays and are therefore more visible on an x-ray image. For example, to examine the circulatory system, an intravenous (IV) contrast agent based on iodine is injected into the bloodstream to help illuminate blood vessels. This type of test is used to look for possible obstructions in blood vessels, including those in the heart. Oral contrast agents, such as barium-based compounds, are used for imaging the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, and gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

Are there risks?

CT scans can diagnose possibly life-threatening conditions such as hemorrhage, blood clots, or cancer. An early diagnosis of these conditions could potentially be lifesaving. However, CT scans use x-rays, and all x-rays produce ionizing radiation. Ionizing radiation has the potential to cause biological effects in living tissue. This is a risk that increases with the number of exposures added up over the life of an individual. However, the risk of developing cancer from x-ray radiation exposure is generally small.

CT images of the heart and coronary artery. Credit: iStock

A CT scan in a pregnant woman poses no known risks to the baby if the area of the body being imaged isn’t the abdomen or pelvis. In general, if imaging of the abdomen and pelvis is needed, doctors prefer to use exams that do not use radiation, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound. However, if neither of those can provide the answers needed, or there is an emergency or other time constraint, CT may be an acceptable alternative imaging option.

In some patients, contrast agents may cause allergic reactions, or in rare cases, temporary kidney failure. IV contrast agents should not be administered to patients with abnormal kidney function since they may induce a further reduction of kidney function, which may sometimes become permanent.

Because children are more sensitive to ionizing radiation and have a longer life expectancy, they have a higher relative risk for developing cancer from such radiation compared with adults. Parents may want to ask the technologist or doctor if their machine settings have been adjusted for children.

What are examples of NIBIB-funded projects using CT?

Imaging for acute ischemic stroke: Stroke, which can have lasting neurological injuries, is also a leading cause of death worldwide. To mitigate damage to the brain, patients may receive endovascular treatment, where the clot blocking the blood supply is either removed or dissolved. However, identifying patients who will benefit from endovascular therapy, such as those with only a small volume of irreversibly injured brain tissue, remains challenging, and time is a critically important factor for a successful clinical outcome.

Patient inside of a CT machine. Credit: iStock

NIBIB-funded researchers have developed an image reconstruction technique to more efficiently triage patients who present with symptoms of a stroke. This CT-based method can be used to rule out the presence of a hemorrhage; to find the site of the blood clot; and to identify the extent of damaged brain tissue. Such a technique could significantly shorten the time from the diagnosis of a stroke to the start of endovascular therapy, and could also guide the endovascular treatment. Following evaluation in animal models, researchers plan to validate this CT imaging technique in human studies.

Accounting for metal implants in CT imaging: Metal objects, such as implants and prostheses, can introduce ‘artifacts’ that may appear as streaks or shadows on a CT scan. These artifacts can obscure anatomical structures or affect calculations necessary for planning radiation therapy. While techniques exist to reduce such artifacts, they do not fully mitigate the artifacts and may even introduce new ones. In this project, NIBIB-funded researchers have developed an algorithm to reduce metal artifacts in CT imaging, without requiring knowledge of the implant material. The researchers plan to optimize their algorithm and then evaluate their technique as a potential method to improve radiation therapy planning for prostate cancer among those with hip protheses.

Leveraging CT images to guide treatments for COVID-19 and beyond: Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used with medical imaging, such as CT, to help improve diagnoses and guide treatment decisions. By using medical images and patient outcomes, clinicians can “train” machine learning-based technologies to recognize patterns and predict responses. During the COVID-19 pandemic, NIBIB created a collaborative imaging initiative called the Medical Imaging and Data Resource Center (MIDRC). This initiative collected and analyzed thousands of CT images from patients with COVID-19 for the development of artificial intelligence and machine learning tools to guide the treatment and monitoring of the disease. These datasets contribute to the development of algorithms for detection, prognosis, and optimization of therapy in acute COVID-19 patients and have the potential to contribute to the understanding of Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC, otherwise known as “Long COVID”). Further, this initiative paves the way for new tools that leverage imaging for other medical conditions, such as cancer, liver disease, or other infectious diseases, among others.

For more information about CT, watch our video here.

Updated June 2022

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Cat Scanner – Identification of cat breeds on Android and iOS

See a cat, but don’t know its breed?

Just take a quick photo or video of your cat and with the Cat Scanner app you can reliably identify a cat breed in just a few seconds! Our built-in camera with Pinch To Zoom and Tap to Focus makes it easy to identify a cat of any breed!

Of course, the Cat Scanner app also supports downloading images from your gallery.

Is there a mixed breed?

No problem, your app also recognizes mixed breeds! We provide you with detailed data and interesting facts about the different breeds of your mixed breed cats.

All cat breeds in the Cat Scanner app!

Cat Scanner currently identifies about 60 different cat breeds. Our database includes all breeds officially recognized by the International Federation (FIFe) and even some more!

By the way, our extensive database of information and photos of all cat breeds (including unofficial ones) is also available completely without scanning!

Is there a cat nearby?

It doesn’t matter! Simply scan yourself, your friends, family or those around you and find out which cat you look like the most!

It may seem a little strange, but it really works: the Cat Scanner app also recognizes people. Just take a quick selfie and find out what kind of cat you are!

Be part of our cat scanner community!

Share your results and compare with the community! Upload photos of your favorite cat to our Social Feed and share them with other cat lovers! Browse profiles and photos of other users, comment on our feline community posts and filter them by date or popularity!

In addition, you can easily share your messages with your friends by simply sending a photo directly from the Cat Scanner app.

Catch all breeds of cats and become an expert!

Catch all cat breeds in Pokémon Go. Scan at least one cat of each breed, complete the challenges, earn virtual treats and become a true cat expert!

Compete against your friends or community members and climb to the top of our rankings!

Give us feedback on the Cat Scanner app!

Let us know if the cat breed has been correctly identified. If not, you will receive useful tips to improve your own results. If you also indicate what breed of cat is in the picture, you will help us improve our software as the app automatically learns how to provide even more accurate results.

Suggest or vote for (unofficial) cat breeds you want us to add to the app in the future!

Get your premium upgrade!

With our premium version, the app will no longer show ads and your results will be available faster. What’s more, you can now choose whether to recognize your cat’s breeds fairly quickly or with greater accuracy. In the premium version, scanning cats is also possible offline, so you no longer need an active internet connection to identify their breeds. By purchasing our premium version as an option, you will also help support this app.

Find us on social networks!

On our social media channels, we bring you the most beautiful community cat pictures. You will also find many interesting facts about your favorite pet. Also, we will keep you updated on all the new added features of the Cat Scanner app in the future.

* Instagram
* Facebook
* Twitter

Just try it!

Download the Cat Scanner app for free. Find him at Google Play for Android devices or Apple App Store if you’re using an iPhone or iPad! Despite the small size of the application, you will get all the features and be able to determine the breed of a cat or access our extensive database at any time!

Have you ever seen a cat and wondered what kind of cat it is? Maybe you even know the breed but can’t remember its name? Or do you have your own cat whose breed you still do not know? Well, you may know that you are a mixed breed, but what breeds are actually part of your favorite?

Before you consider getting an expensive DNA test, the Cat Scanner app will help you answer all these questions! Just scan the cat with the app and the cat’s breed will be automatically determined within seconds!

Disclaimer:

This app cannot turn your smart phone into a crazy spaceship that can extract your cat’s blood with a magic laser. The app gives educated predictions based on what it sees. On average, these predictions are fairly accurate. However, obviously the result can only be as good as the image/video you provide to the application. Moreover, it is impossible to correctly identify every cat. People tend to take it personally if their own favorite cat is not predicted correctly. If you give the app a chance, you’ll see that its overall performance is pretty decent. Instead of paying a bunch of money for a DNA test, you get this app for free. Enjoy!

‎App Store: Cat Scanner

Description

See a cat but don’t know its breed? Just take a picture and find out!

The Cat Scanner app reliably identifies your cat’s breed in just a few seconds! Apart from taking a photo, you can also record a video or upload an image from your gallery.

Are you a mixed breed?

No problem, the Cat Scanner app also recognizes mixed breeds! We will provide you with detailed data and interesting facts about the different breeds of your mixed breed cats.

Is there a cat nearby?

It doesn’t matter! The Cat Scanner app also recognizes people: Simply scan yourself, friends, family or those around you and find out which cat you like best!

——

NEW! Be part of our cat scanner community!

Share your results and compare with the community! Upload photos of your favorite cat to our Social Feed and share them with other cat lovers! Browse profiles and photos of other users, comment on our feline community posts and filter them by date or popularity!

In addition, you can easily share your messages with your friends by simply sending a photo directly from the Cat Scanner app.

——

Catch all cat breeds and become an expert!

Capture cats of all breeds with our Gamification feature, just like in Pokémon Go! Master the challenges, earn virtual treats and become a true cat expert! Compete against friends or users from the community and climb to the top of our rankings!

All cat breeds in the Cat Scanner app!

The Cat Scanner app currently recognizes about 60 different cat breeds, including all breeds officially recognized by the FIFe (International Federation) and even more! Our extensive database of information and photos of all cat breeds (including unofficial ones) is also available completely unscanned!

Give us your feedback on the Cat Scanner app!

Let us know if the cat’s breed has been correctly identified. If not, you will receive useful tips to improve your own results. If you also indicate what breed of cat is in the picture, you will help us improve our software as the app automatically learns how to provide even more accurate results. Also suggest or vote for (unofficial) cat breeds you want us to add to the app in the future!

Get your premium upgrade!

With our premium version, the app will no longer show ads and your results will be available faster. What’s more, you can now choose whether your cat breeds should be recognized quickly enough or with greater accuracy. With the premium version, scanning cats is also possible offline, so you no longer need an active internet connection to identify their breeds. By purchasing our premium version as an option, you will also help support this app.

——

Find us on social networks!

On our social media channels, we bring you the most beautiful community cat pictures. You will also find many interesting facts about your favorite pet. In addition, we will keep you updated on all new added features of the Cat Scanner app in the future.

* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catscanner_app
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CatScanner
* Twitter: https://twitter.com/catscanner_app

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Just try it!

Finding a cat is as easy as getting one! Despite the small size of the application, you will get all the features and be able to determine the breed of a cat or access our extensive database at any time! Before considering an expensive DNA test, simply scan your cat with the app and the cat breed will be automatically determined within seconds! Download the Cat Scanner app now!

Terms of Service:
https://scanner.siwalusoftware.com/terms-of-service

Mar 1 2023

Version 9.8.8

Bug fixes and improvements.

Ratings and reviews

ratings: 293

👍👍

The app accurately identified the breeds of my cats))👍👍👍👍

Does not recognize a cat correctly, even an ordinary one

He writes that Scottish cats are not an official breed and therefore he cannot recognize whether the Scots have not been an official breed for a long time ?! In 2004 it was registered, what’s the problem?! With an ordinary cat the same story …….

👎🏻

Does not scan, a window with a paid subscription opens immediately

The developer of Siwalu Software GmbH has indicated that, in accordance with the application’s privacy policy, data may be processed as described below. Detailed information is available in the developer’s privacy policy.

Data used for tracking information

The following data may be used to track user information in apps and websites owned by other companies:

• Contact details

• Identifiers

• Usage Data

Related
with user data

The following data may be collected, which is related to the user’s identity:

• Contact details

• User Content

• Search History

• Identifiers

• Usage Data

• Diagnostics

Unrelated
with user data

The following data may be collected, which is not related to the user’s identity:

Sensitive data may be used differently depending on your age, features involved, or other factors.