CANCER WARNING SIGNS IN DOGS

Canine cancer is a result of uncontrolled cell proliferation. Abnormal cells can develop in nearly any area of the body, such as skin, bone, organ tissues and blood. The incidence rate for canine cancer increases as a dog ages; however, the disease can develop at any age. Therefore, detection early in the course of disease will have the greatest impact upon treatment outcome and quality of life.

The initial manifestations of cancer in dogs are usually very subtle. In fact, they frequently mimic symptoms of less serious diseases, which accounts for why so many dogs receive their diagnosis after their disease has advanced. By recognizing changes in your pet’s behavior, appetite and physical condition, you will help to ensure timely veterinary evaluation, which will lead to better outcomes.

General warning signs

There are various ways in which you might see symptoms of cancer, depending upon the type of cancer and where the tumor has developed. Some general indicators should be treated as serious and prompt veterinary evaluation.

Visible Lumps and Swellings

The most frequent indicator of a potential health issue is the development of visible masses or lumps under the skin. Not every mass indicates the presence of cancer; however, any change in size, shape, or consistency of an already identified lump or newly developing lumps requires your veterinarian’s attention.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Weight loss, whether it occurs rapidly or slowly (without a significant change in either diet or activity level), could be an indicator that the body is utilizing excess amounts of energy for unknown reasons, such as the presence of another disease process.

Reduced Appetite

Canine patients diagnosed with cancer often will display decreased appetite or irregular feeding patterns. A decrease in appetite can occur from pain, metabolic changes, or tumor effects on internal organs.

Persistent Lethargy

Either rapid onset or prolonged periods of lethargy (decreased activity) or excessive sleeping time can signal early stages of other diseases. While lethargy does appear to be a feature of many disorders, lack of energy that persists should not be ignored.

Skin and External Changes

Non-Healing Wounds

Non healing wounds or sores in dogs should be examined by a veterinarian. Although many wounds are caused by injuries or infections, some skin tumors can interfere with normal healing and may require further testing.

Changes in Skin Color or Texture

If you see areas of your skin darken, thicken, or become irritated, check them out. Some types of skin cancer will cause abnormal color, pigmentation, or texture.

Abnormal Bleeding or Discharge

Unexplained bleeding from the nose, mouth, ears, or any body opening can be a warning sign of several health problems, including some cancers and should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Digestive and Urinary Signs

Cancer affecting internal organs may show signs related to digestion or urination.

Digestive Issues

• Vomiting or regurgitation
• Chronic diarrhea or constipation
• Abdominal swelling or discomfort
• Difficulty eating or swallowing

Urinary Changes

• Blood in urine
• Increased or decreased urination
• Straining during urination
• Loss of bladder control

Respiratory Signs

Cancers affecting the chest or lungs may cause breathing related symptoms.

• Persistent coughing
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Exercise intolerance
• Noisy or labored breathing

These signs often worsen gradually and may be mistaken for respiratory infections in the early stages.

Behavioral Changes

Some signs that your pet has developed cancer include behavioral and physical symptoms.

Behavioral Signs

• Withdrawal from family interaction
• Irritability or aggression without a clear reason
• Restlessness or discomfort
• Reluctance to move or exercise
• Reduced interest in play or daily activities

Pain-Related Signs

• Limping or difficulty walking
• Reluctance to climb stairs or jump
• Excessive licking or chewing of one area
• Whining, groaning, or unusual vocalization
• Changes in posture or stiffness

Risks of Ignoring Early Signs

Delaying diagnosis of cancer allows it to spread and grow into other areas of the body through metastasis. When cancer has spread, treatment is more complex and outcomes are often less favorable.

Advanced stage cancer can significantly impact organ function, mobility and quality of life. In some cases, if cancer is left untreated, it will eventually become life threatening due to internal bleeding, severe pain, or failure of an organ.

Diagnosis

Veterinarians use a combination of physical examination and diagnostic tests to confirm cancer.

Common methods for diagnosis

• Physical examination to assess lumps and abnormalities found on the veterinary patient
• Fine needle aspiration (FNA) or biopsy for cell analysis
• Blood tests to evaluate the health and functional status of all organs
• X-rays to detect tumors that have developed inside the body or to detect lung involvement
• Ultrasound for evaluation of abdominal organs
• CT or MRI scans for detailed imaging when needed.

Treatment

Treatment will depend upon the type of cancer, where it has occurred (in what part of the body), the extent of the cancer (the degree to which the cancer has spread) and the general health of your dog.

Surgical Treatment

Often, surgical treatment is employed to remove local tumors; this is particularly true for tumors diagnosed early. However, depending on other factors such as the site, size and type of tumor, surgery can potentially cure your dog.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy may be prescribed to either slow the rate at which tumors grow or to treat systemic disease. Chemotherapy is very tolerable in dogs compared to humans.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is used primarily for those tumors that are too advanced or difficult to excise surgically. Radiation therapy can also be used to shrink tumors, thereby alleviating pain and discomfort.

Supportive Care

• Pain management medications
• Nutritional support
• Anti inflammatory agents
• Palliative care with emphasis placed on improving the quality of life for your dog.

Generally speaking, the primary focus of supportive care is to extend your dog’s ability to remain comfortable and continue functioning for as long as possible.

Prevention

• Regular visits with your veterinarian, especially as your dog ages.
• Having any newly developed lumps or changes evaluated promptly.
• Maintaining a healthy body condition and feeding a well balanced diet.
• Reducing your dog’s exposure to potential carcinogens when feasible.
• Spaying or neutering when recommended by your veterinarian.
• Promptly addressing any chronic infections or open sores on your pet.