Warning Signs of Canine Cancer

Advanced technology has made detecting canine cancer possible in the early and treatable stages. Yet, it's observant pet owners who first suspect this disease in their dogs by noticing the sometimes subtle signs. Because cancer can affect any part of the body, the symptoms are varied and sometimes mimic other health issues. If canine cancer is suspected, blood tests, x-rays or a biopsy may be performed. Treatment for this disease may involve surgery, chemotherapy or radiation treatments. The prognosis depends on the stage of the cancer, which is why early detection is of primary importance.

Unusual Lumps

These may occur anywhere on the body or face. If the lump feels hard and seems to grow rapidly, this could be an indicator of cancer. A veterinarian will perform a needle biopsy to make a diagnosis. Often, these lumps are fatty tumors and no treatment is required.

Inability to Heal Quickly

If the dog has an open sore that doesn't heal within a reasonable time, canine cancer may be suspected. With this disease, the immune system becomes weakened, and the body is not able to heal quickly.

Loss of Appetite

In canine cancer, the dog's normal bodily functions may be suppressed or compromised. A loss of appetite may result, depending on the location of the cancerous cells. If the cancer is affecting any part of the digestive tract, this will be a primary symptom. If the cancer is in the bone or skin tissue, loss of appetite may occur in the latter stages of the disease as the body becomes severely weakened and is unable to recognize the need to eat.

Weight Loss

While weight loss will naturally accompany a decreased appetite, a symptom of canine cancer is unexplained weight loss. In this situation, the dog may eat normally or may even be hungrier than usual, yet will lose weight. Depending on the type of cancer, normal metabolism may be affected, thereby burning calories inefficiently and leading to weight loss and weakness.

Joint Stiffness

Although this sign is present in arthritis or muscle sprains, if the dog has difficulty walking or getting up from a prone position, bone cancer is a possibility. This type of cancer is fairly common, but the prognosis is usually poor.

Breathing Difficulty

If the dog is excessively sneezing or coughing, cancer may be present in the respiratory tract. Because dogs spend a lot of time sniffing the ground, they are more susceptible to cancer of the respiratory system, particularly the sinus cavity. This occurs from inhaling carcinogens from herbicides, pesticides and other dangerous substances.