U.S. Equine Imaging Services Market – By Imaging Modality, By Application, By Zone, Forecast, 2024 – 2032

U.S. Equine Imaging Services Market Size

U.S. equine imaging services market size was valued at USD 239.5 million in 2023 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of over 4.8% from 2024 to 2032. The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by several key trends. First, advancements in imaging technologies, such as MRI and CT scans, are enhancing diagnostic accuracy, enabling veterinarians to detect conditions earlier and treat them more effectively.
 

For example, in January 2022, Clarius announced the launch of three new ultra-portable wireless ultrasound scanners designed for veterinarians at the VMX Expo. These smartphone-based devices offer high-resolution imaging without the need for wires, facilitating easier and faster diagnostics in various veterinary settings. This innovation has contributed to increased demand for sophisticated imaging services.
 

Additionally, growing awareness of equine health among horse owners is spurring spending on veterinary services, including imaging. In August 2024, the U.S. Equestrian Federation introduced U.S. Equestrian Safety Awareness Week, held from September 16-22, 2024, to promote safety in equestrian sports. The campaign provided educational resources, safety updates, and product discounts through partnerships with industry leaders, further boosting interest in equine healthcare.
 

Equine imaging services refer to advanced diagnostic techniques used to visualize the internal structures of horses. These include modalities such as radiography, ultrasonography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), among others. These medical imaging services assist veterinarians in diagnosing conditions, monitoring health, and guiding treatment plans, ensuring optimal equine health and performance.
 

U.S. Equine Imaging Services Market Trends

As horse owners invest more in their animals' health, they increasingly recognize the value of advanced diagnostic tools such as MRIs, medical X-rays, and ultrasounds. This heightened investment is driven by a growing awareness of equine health and the necessity of early diagnosis to prevent severe conditions. Moreover, the willingness to spend more on specialized veterinary care and equine research aligns with the trend of personalized medicine, where tailored treatment plans are becoming the norm.
 

• For instance, in April 2024, the Morris Animal Foundation announced it is accepting research proposals for the 2024 Equid Health Grants. The call includes four award types—Established Investigator, First Award, Pilot Study, and Fellowship Training—focusing on the health and welfare of horses, ponies, donkeys, and mules. Due to such initiatives, the demand for high-quality imaging services is likely to rise.
   

Overall, the upward trend in equine healthcare expenditures creates a favorable environment for the growth of the equine imaging services market, enabling better health outcomes for horses and reinforcing the role of imaging in veterinary practice.
 

U.S. Equine Imaging Services Market Analysis

Based on imaging modality, the market is segmented into X-rays, ultrasound, MRI scans, nuclear imaging systems, CT scans, and other imaging modalities. The X-rays segment dominated the market with USD 96.2 million revenue in 2023.
 

• The significant growth of the X-ray segment is driven by the rising demand for equine diagnostic services and increased awareness of horse care in the U.S.
   
• X-rays, or radiography, are among the most commonly used diagnostic tools in equine imaging, offering a non-invasive method to evaluate bone structure, joint health, and certain soft tissue conditions in horses.
   
• This diagnostic modality is particularly useful for identifying fractures, osteoarthritis, and bone-related abnormalities.
   
• Its affordability, ease of use, and relatively quick results make it a preferred tool in most equine practices.

Based on application, the U.S. equine imaging services market is classified into orthopedics, oncology, cardiology, neurology, and other applications. The orthopedics segment held the highest market share with 40.2% in 2023.
 

• Advanced imaging modalities, including X-rays, MRI, CT scans, and ultrasound, are frequently utilized to diagnose orthopedic issues. X-rays serve as the primary diagnostic tool for bone-related problems, such as fractures, osteoarthritis, and joint degeneration.
   
• As equestrian sports continue to grow, the demand for high-quality orthopedic care for horses is rising, necessitating the use of advanced imaging for early detection and treatment planning.
   
• Furthermore, the increasing prevalence of orthopedic conditions in horses is projected to create a favorable environment for segment growth. For instance, a 2024 study by Mad Barn found developmental orthopedic disease in an estimated 66% of Standardbreds, Warmbloods, and Thoroughbred foals.
   
• Collectively, these factors are expected to drive growth within this segment throughout the forecast period.

South Atlantic equine imaging services market witnessed significant revenue growth and was valued at USD 44.9 million in 2023 and is projected to sustain a CAGR of 4.5% between 2024 and 2032.
 

• The Southeastern zone, encompassing states like Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia, is anticipated to experience robust growth in the equine imaging services market, driven by its thriving equestrian industry. Florida stands out as a hub for horse racing, show jumping, and dressage, hosting high-profile events such as the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington.
   
• Moreover, the increasing number of veterinary clinics and hospitals offering specialized equine services in states like Florida and North Carolina is fueling the adoption of advanced imaging technologies.
   
• For instance, in April 2023, NC State Veterinary Hospital introduced a standing CT scanner, allowing equine patients to be scanned without the need for general anesthesia. This innovation enhances safety by reducing anesthesia risks and provides detailed 3D imaging, particularly useful for head and neck conditions.
   

West south central zone is estimated to register a significant CAGR during the forecast period.
 

• This zone, including Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana, is expected to witness substantial growth in equine imaging services, driven by its vibrant horse industry.
   
• Texas hosts a large number of horse owners, breeding farms, and equestrian facilities, making it a central hub for equine activities such as rodeos, ranching, and competitive events like barrel racing and cutting.
   
• According to data published by Texas A&M AgriLife's digital magazine in 2024, an estimated 30.48% of households in Texas include horse enthusiasts. Additionally, approximately 252,326 horses in Texas are used for recreational purposes.
   

U.S. Equine Imaging Services Market Share

The market is characterized by a range of specialized veterinary clinics and diagnostic service providers offering advanced imaging solutions tailored to equine healthcare. As the demand for precision diagnostics grows within the equine industry, service providers are increasingly incorporating advanced imaging modalities such as digital radiography, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography (CT). This has positioned the U.S. as one of the key markets for equine imaging services, with many players offering comprehensive diagnostic solutions designed specifically for equine needs.
 

U.S. Equine Imaging Services Market Companies

Prominent players operating in the U.S. equine imaging services industry include:

• Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
• Hagyard Equine Medical Institute
• Mid-Atlantic Equine Medical Center
• Palm Beach Equine Clinic
• Peterson Smith Equine Hospital
• Rood & Riddle
• Tennessee Equine Hospital
• University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine
• B.W. Furlong & Associates
• Virginia Equine Imaging
   

U.S. Equine Imaging Services Industry News:

• In July 2024, the Peterson Smith Equine Hospital announced acquisition of its new state-of-the-art CT wing, significantly enhancing its diagnostic capabilities for equine healthcare. This new addition strengthens the hospital’s commitment to providing cutting-edge medical services, reinforcing its position as a leading provider of equine care.
   
• In December 2023, the Palm Beach Equine Clinic enhanced its diagnostic capabilities with the addition of a state-of-the-art Computed Tomography (CT) scanner. This addition positions Palm Beach Equine Clinic at the forefront of equine diagnostics, strengthening its service offerings in the competitive veterinary care market.
   

U.S. equine imaging services market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue in USD Million from 2021 – 2032 for the following segments:

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Market, By Imaging Modality

• X-rays
• Ultrasound
• MRI scans
• Nuclear imaging systems
• CT scans
• Other imaging modalities

Market, By Application

• Orthopedics
• Oncology
• Cardiology
• Neurology
• Other applications

The above information is provided for the following zones:

• East North Central
• West South Central
• South Atlantic
• Northeast
• East South Central
• West North Central
• Pacific Central
• Mountain States