Cancer in Dogs and Cats: What Pet Owners Need to Know

Have you ever noticed a strange lump or persistent fatigue in your pet and wondered if it could be something serious? Just like humans, dogs and cats can develop cancer—and early detection makes all the difference. At Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital, we see many cases where pets go on to live long, healthy lives thanks to timely diagnosis and treatment. Cancer in dogs and cats can affect virtually any part of the body, including the skin, organs, and blood. While hearing the word “cancer” can be terrifying, veterinary medicine has come a long way. With routine wellness visits, early testing, and tailored treatment options, your pet can have the best possible outcome. We’re here to help you recognize the warning signs and navigate your pet’s care with confidence and compassion.

Cancer in Dogs and Cats: Recognizing the Signs Early

The signs of cancer in pets can be subtle at first, which is why routine veterinary exams are so important. The earlier cancer is detected, the more treatment options are available. Some of the most common warning signs include:

  • Unexplained lumps or bumps: Not all growths are malignant cancers, some are benign, but any new mass should be evaluated by your veterinarian. 
  • Weight loss or loss of appetite: A sudden disinterest in food can signal an internal problem.
  • Lethargy or changes in behavior: If your normally energetic pet seems unusually tired, take note. 
  • Difficulty breathing or coughing: Especially if accompanied by other symptoms.
  • Non-healing wounds or sores: These may indicate underlying skin cancer or infections. These can often originate in the mouth, a commonly overlooked area.
  • Abnormal bleeding or discharge: From the nose, mouth, or elsewhere, this should be checked promptly.
  • Seizures: If your pet does not have a history of seizures and suddenly begins having them, take them to the veterinarian as soon as possible to investigate further.

Certain breeds are more prone to specific cancers. For example, Golden Retrievers often face lymphoma, while Boxers are more likely to develop mast cell tumors. In cats, squamous cell carcinoma (a skin cancer) is common, especially around the ears and nose in light-colored cats.

How Cancer in Dogs and Cats Is Diagnosed

If you or your vet notice signs of concern, the next step is diagnostics. At Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital, we use a range of tools to diagnose cancer, including:

  • Physical exams & palpation: To locate external or sometimes internal tumors or check for swelling.
  • Bloodwork, urine & lab tests: To look for signs of internal disease or organ damage.
  • Imaging (X-rays, ultrasound, CT, MRI): To identify tumors inside the chest, abdomen, skeletal or nervous system, including the brain.
  • Biopsy or Fine Needle Aspirate (FNA): A small sample of tissue is analyzed to determine if a growth is cancerous.

Once a diagnosis is made, we work with you to create a treatment plan based on the type and stage of cancer, your pet’s age and overall health, and your family’s goals for care.

To learn more about the lumps and bumps you may find on your pet, watch this video!

Cancer Treatment Options for Dogs and Cats: What to Expect

Thanks to advances in veterinary oncology, pets with cancer have more options than ever. Treatments may include:

  • Surgery: Often used to remove localized tumors.
  • Chemotherapy: Medications that target and destroy cancer cells—typically well-tolerated by pets.
  • Radiation therapy: Often used in combination with surgery or chemo for certain types of cancer.
  • Immunotherapy: Stimulates the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
  • Palliative care: Focuses on comfort and quality of life, especially in advanced stages.

Your vet will walk you through the risks, benefits, and costs of each option. We understand how overwhelming this can be, and our team is here to support you through every step of the journey.

Cancer in Dogs and Cats: How to Support Your Pet Through Treatment

No matter what treatment path you choose, your pet needs lots of love, comfort, and routine care. Here’s how you can help at home:

  • Stay on schedule: Administer medications and follow-up visits as recommended.
  • Keep your pet comfortable: Provide soft bedding, quiet spaces, and low-stress environments.
  • Monitor closely: Track changes in appetite, behavior, or physical appearance and report them to your vet.
  • Maintain a healthy diet: Ask us about special diets that may support immune health and healing.

At Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital, we’re committed to compassionate care. Whether your pet needs aggressive treatment or supportive care, we’ll work with you to ensure their quality of life is always the top priority.

Cancer in Dogs and Cats: Partner with Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital

Facing a cancer diagnosis can be one of the hardest moments as a pet parent, but you’re not alone. The team at Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital is here to guide you with empathy, knowledge, and expert care. We believe every pet deserves a fighting chance, and we’re proud to offer diagnostic services, treatment plans, and emotional support tailored to your pet’s needs.

If you’ve noticed any unusual symptoms in your pet or just want to be proactive about their health, call us today at (843) 884-4921 or schedule an appointment online. Early detection can save lives—and we’re here to help every step of the way.

Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital in Mount Pleasant, SC, is part of a locally owned, family-owned network of animal hospitals known as Animal Hospitals of the Lowcountry. Our network includes:

  • Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital: South Mount Pleasant SC, At Coleman Blvd and Old Village
  • Shuler Veterinary Clinic: Central Mount Pleasant SC, At Town Center
  • Safe Harbor Animal Hospital: North Mount Pleasant SC, At North MP and Hwy 41

Let’s work together to keep our pets, families, and community safe!