Factors to Consider When Buying a Veterinary Exam Table
Exam room tables are part of the infrastructure of any veterinary practice—something the team uses every single day but might not think about unless a problem arises.
Here are some things to consider when purchasing this important piece of equipment…
Table Size
While many tables designed for small animal veterinary clinics fall into a similar size range, there are variations. Consider which sizes of patients you see—as well as the size of your exam rooms—and plan accordingly.
Remember to check weight capacity, especially if your practice sees large and giant breed dogs.
Table Durability
There’s no doubt about it—veterinary exam tables need to be durable. Otherwise, there are many ways in which a table could become damaged.
Durability includes the ability to resist scratches from pets’ toenails, as well as avoid chips, dents, wearing, stains, or other “battle scars.” This means not only damages from dogs and cats, but also wear and tear from dropping heavy tools or instruments, storing or moving the table, or using harsh cleaning agents.
Stainless steel veterinary exam tables are a very common choice. They can stand up to a lot of potential hazards and are amenable to regular cleaning with a variety of cleaning agents. However, there are grades of stainless steel that vary in durability. Choose one designed to stand up to daily use in a veterinary clinic.
Disadvantages of stainless steel include lack of traction (pets slipping on the smooth surface), the cold temperature, and the sterile, hospital-like feel. Many vets have found a way around this by placing mats on the table’s surface, then washing or replacing the mats as needed.
Options for table coverings include rubber bathmats, yoga mats on a roll that can be cut to desired sizes, and non-slip mats designed for veterinary clinics, to name a few.
Configuration in the Exam Room
Typical configuration options for veterinary exam tables include parallel, peninsula, and island styles.
A parallel table, also known as a horizontal or wall table, attaches to the wall on its long side. Some veterinary staff like this style when working solo, especially when it includes restraint tethers for a leash. Others feel restricted since it’s not possible to walk around the table, so a patient must be turned 180 degrees to evaluate anything on the patient’s opposite side.
A peninsula table is attached to the wall on its short side. This allows team members to stand on each side of the table, and it facilitates a bilateral exam without having to move the patient around.
An island table is free standing, not attached to any exam room walls. It may be a permanent fixture, or something mobile that can be tucked away or removed from the room.
Mounting and Folding
Permanently installed tables may stand on their own base or be mounted to a wall.
Some wall mount exam tables (both peninsula and island) can be folded up against the wall when not in use. This is a nice feature for times when the vet prefers to stay on the floor to examine a patient—for example, large dogs or patients who are scared of being on the table.
A fold-up veterinary exam table can also save space when needed.
Lift Capability
While many veterinary exam tables are fixed at a permanent height, others can be raised or lowered.
One benefit of a lifting function is the ability to move a patient to the right height without the team having to manually lift the pet. Also, an adjustable-height table means that team members of different heights can adjust the table to their comfort level. Some (not all) lift tables also incorporate a built-in scale.
Potential disadvantages of lift tables include noise and expense. Some pets are scared of noises the table makes when rising. So, if purchasing a lift table, make sure it is as quiet as possible.
Of course, adding a lift function also means the table may be significantly more expensive. For this reason, some veterinary practices balance the benefits of both standard and lift tables by having a combination of both.
This could mean having one “large dog” room with a lift table while using standard tables in all other rooms. Another example is having all standard tables, plus one moveable gurney with a lift function.
Purchasing a Veterinary Exam Table
As with any new veterinary equipment purchase, do your due diligence. Research and compare your options. Ask colleagues what they use and whether they’ve been happy with their purchases.
Remember to protect your investment by learning about options such as warranties and inquiring about the best ways to clean and maintain your tables. Make sure wall-mounted tables are properly installed and tested.
That way, your exam table can help the team safely examine and care for patients for years to come.
Written by: Dr. Tammy Powell, DVM
Stainless Steel Wall-Mounted Folding Exam Table
Why Wall-Mounted Folding Exam Tables Make Sense for Modern Veterinary Clinics
In today’s veterinary clinics, space, efficiency, and hygiene all matter more than ever. Many practices are looking for ways to improve patient care without expanding square footage or overcrowding exam rooms.
One practical solution more clinics are choosing is a stainless steel wall-mounted folding exam table.
Here’s why this type of exam table is becoming a brilliant stainless steel wall-mounted folding exam table, for veterinary hospitals and small practices alike.
Designed for Clinics Where Space Is Limited
Not every veterinary clinic has large exam rooms or extra treatment space. In smaller practices, every square foot needs to work hard.
A wall-mounted folding exam table:
Folds nearly flat against the wall when not in use
Extends less than 5 inches from the wall when closed
Frees up room for movement, carts, and staff flow
When an exam or patient transfer is needed, the table folds down quickly—then disappears again when the task is complete.
Built for Practical, Everyday Use
This exam table style is designed for real clinical workflows, not occasional use.
Key functional benefits include:
Sturdy stainless steel construction
Supports up to 120 pounds, providing stable support for routine exams and recumbent patients.Versatile applications
Can be used for examinations, patient transfers, or temporary patient support.Integrated backsplash
Helps prevent fluids from getting trapped between the table and the wall—reducing cleanup concerns.
Stainless Steel Supports Better Hygiene
In veterinary medicine, infection control is critical—for both patients and staff.
Stainless steel exam tables offer clear advantages:
Easy to clean and disinfect
Rust-resistant and moisture-resistant
Non-porous surface that doesn’t harbor bacteria
Maintains a clean, professional appearance over time
These qualities make stainless steel a reliable choice for exam and treatment areas where cleanliness matters most.
Ideal for Small Clinics and Fast-Paced Environments
Wall-mounted folding exam tables are handy in:
Small veterinary clinics
Practices with limited exam rooms
Facilities where patients need immediate access
Clinics looking to add functionality without remodeling
Because the table stores vertically when not in use, it allows teams to adapt rooms quickly as needs change throughout the day.
Simple Delivery and Assembly
Another benefit is ease of ownership.
Free delivery
Ships ready for quick assembly
No special tools required
Lightweight enough to handle easily during setup
Please note:
Installation is not included. A licensed contractor should complete proper wall mounting, and the table should be tested for correct installation before use.
A Smart, Long-Term Equipment Choice
For veterinary practices that value efficiency, hygiene, and thoughtful use of space, a stainless steel wall-mounted folding exam table offers long-term value without unnecessary complexity.
It’s a simple upgrade that supports better workflow, cleaner environments, and more flexible exam spaces—without taking over the room.
Have questions or want to learn more?
Call 877-545-1202 to talk with a veterinary equipment specialist about whether a wall-mounted folding exam table is right for your clinic.