Cancer of the Liver in Dogs

Elderly dogs are far more likely to get liver cancer than younger dogs. According to Dr. Erika De Papp, male dogs are more susceptible than females, but this is not known why. If the cancer is caught early enough, before it has a chance to spread, chances are good that the dog will survive.

Causes

It is not entirely known why dogs get liver cancer. It is possible they may have been exposed to carcinogens such as pesticides, dyes and tobacco smoke or spoiled food.

Types

The two types of liver cancer in dogs are primary liver cancer and metastatic liver cancer. According to Dr. Papp, 98 percent of dogs with liver cancer get the metastatic type.

Symptoms

Symptoms of liver cancer include vomiting, listlessness, pale gums, loss of appetite, yellowing of the skin and sudden weight loss. Some dogs also pant all the time.

Diagnosis

Your vet must examine the dog and perform tests, including a complete blood count, a liver biopsy, X-rays and an ultrasound, as well as a test to see how well the blood clots.

Treatment

If the tumor is small enough, it can be surgically removed. If not, chemotherapy and radiation are used to shrink the tumor.

References

• Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook; Debra M. Eldredge, DVM, et al.; 2007
• Hepatic Neoplasia (Liver Tumors) in Dogs; Dr. Erika De Papp
• Vet Surgery Central: Liver Cancer; Dr. Daniel A. Degner, DACVS

Resources

• Find a Veterinarian
• Canine Cancer Awareness
• The Canine Cancer Project