Cancer is, unfortunately, one of the most common serious diseases in pets, especially in older dogs and cats.
However, early detection and proper management can significantly improve both quality and length of life.
Here’s a full overview of cancer care in pets
Common Cancers in Dogs
Lymphoma: Cancer of lymphocytes; affects lymph nodes and organs.
Mast Cell Tumors: Skin tumors that can range from mild to aggressive.
Osteosarcoma: Bone cancer, especially in large breeds.
Hemangiosarcoma: Cancer of blood vessel linings, often in the spleen or heart.
Melanoma: Found in the mouth or skin.
Mammary (Breast) Tumors: Common in unspayed females.
Common Cancers in Cats
Lymphoma: The most common feline cancer (often linked to feline leukemia virus, FeLV).
Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Affects the mouth, nose, or ears — linked to sun exposure or smoking environments.
Fibrosarcoma: Connective tissue cancer; sometimes linked to chronic inflammation.
Mammary Tumors: Frequently malignant; spaying before 6 months greatly reduces risk.
Early Warning Signs
Lumps or bumps that grow or change.
Unexplained weight loss.
Loss of appetite or lethargy.
Difficulty eating, breathing, or eliminating.
Persistent sores or wounds that don’t heal.
Lameness or swelling (especially in bones).
Bleeding from mouth, nose, or other orifices.
If you notice any of these signs lasting more than a week or two, schedule a veterinary exam right away.
Diagnosis
Veterinarians use several tests to confirm and assess cancer:
Physical exam & fine-needle aspiration or biopsy
Bloodwork (CBC, chemistry panel)
Imaging: X-rays, ultrasound, CT, or MRI
Cytology or histopathology: Cell and tissue analysis
Staging: Determines whether and how far cancer has spread.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type, location, and stage of cancer, as well as your pet’s overall health.
1. Surgery
Often the first step if the tumor is localized and operable.
Can be curative for certain cancers (e.g., benign tumors, some skin cancers).
2. Chemotherapy
Uses drugs to slow or stop cancer growth.
Pets usually tolerate chemo much better than humans — minimal hair loss and manageable side effects.
3. Radiation Therapy
Targets localized tumors (e.g., nasal tumors, brain, bone).
4. Immunotherapy / Targeted Therapy
Stimulates the immune system to attack cancer cells.
Newer and more specific than traditional chemotherapy.
5. Palliative Care
Focuses on keeping pets comfortable and pain-free, especially in advanced cases.
Involves pain control, appetite stimulants, and supportive care.
Home & Supportive Care
Nutrition: High-quality, balanced diet; some cancers benefit from low-carb, high-protein diets.
Pain management: Prescribed pain relievers or anti-inflammatories.
Hydration: Encourage water or subcutaneous fluids if recommended.
Stress reduction: Gentle exercise, quiet spaces, and affection.
Regular follow-ups: Monitoring for recurrence or side effects.
Quality of Life and Decision-Making
Your vet may use a quality-of-life scale to help assess when a pet’s comfort is declining (e.g., “HHHHHMM scale”: Hurt, Hunger, Hydration, Hygiene, Happiness, Mobility, More good days than bad).
Euthanasia may be a kind, compassionate choice if pain or suffering becomes unmanageable.
Prevention and Early Detection
Regular vet exams (at least annually; every 6 months for older pets).
Spaying/neutering reduces risk of some cancers.
Avoid tobacco smoke exposure.
Monitor lumps or changes — early detection saves lives.