Breast Cancer in Dogs A Complete Guide
Unfortunately, breast cancer in dogs is one of the most common tumors in female dogs. When it occurs, it’s a cause for great concern, as the disease is serious and can spread.
This condition primarily affects females that are not spayed. The sooner the disease is diagnosed and treated, the greater the chances of a cure and life expectancy. Therefore, every precaution is necessary. Read on to learn more.
Why might my dog get breast cancer?
Breast cancer in dogs can occur for a variety of reasons, including genetics, nutritional factors, and environmental factors. However, it’s primarily caused by prolonged exposure to female hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone.
Advanced age, obesity and the use of contraceptives without a proper prescription from a veterinarian also significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer in female dogs.
What are the symptoms of breast cancer in female dogs?
Symptoms become more evident as mammary cancer in dogs progresses. Initially, they are almost imperceptible, as the characteristic nodule is only visible when it reaches a few centimeters.
That’s why it’s so important to perform a breast exam on female dogs . If the animal is still cycling (not spayed), wait for the breasts to subside before performing a more thorough exam.
Gently and slowly feel all the breasts. Feel all the tissues: they should be soft and, depending on how many times the dog has been in heat, may feel like a sago. They shouldn’t be hard or lumpy. If you notice hard lumps or small grains (like sand or rice), consult a veterinarian.
Symptoms in more advanced cases
In more advanced cases of breast cancer in female dogs, the caregiver may notice obvious, firm lumps or nodules, which may be located on or near the nipples.
The affected breast may be swollen, red, and painful. A yellowish or bloody discharge, with or without odor, may come out of the nipples, especially when the dog lies down.
The skin in the cancerous area may become purplish or darker. The texture may also change, going from smooth to bumpy. The area becomes very sensitive and bleeds easily. As the cancer progresses, the dog becomes prostrate, spends more time lying down, loses its appetite , and may experience fever.
The most common metastasis in breast cancer is the spread of the disease to the lungs. The animal may experience difficulty breathing, a purple tongue, and fainting. Another common site is the brain, which causes seizures and behavioral changes.
How is the diagnosis made?
Breast cancer in dogs is diagnosed primarily by visual and physical examination, when the veterinarian detects a mass in the breast. Once this is done, the veterinarian will order additional tests, such as cytology or biopsy.
Abdominal X-rays and ultrasounds help detect metastases in dogs with breast cancer . Cytology or biopsy of the nodule is sent for histopathological analysis of the tumor. Blood tests determine the dog’s overall health.
How is the treatment done?
Treatment for mammary tumors in female dogs depends on the type and stage of the tumor and the animal’s health condition. Surgery is the treatment of choice in most cases. The veterinarian will decide whether to remove the nodule, when possible, or the entire affected mammary chain, depending on the condition and severity.
After surgery, chemotherapy may be indicated for malignant tumors with a higher chance of metastasis. Radiation therapy is also possible in some cases, at the discretion of the treating physician. Finally, some patients may be prescribed electrochemotherapy during surgery, ensuring greater safety in removing the entire affected area.
Prevention of breast cancer in female dogs
It’s impossible to think about breast cancer prevention in female dogs without mentioning spaying . Studies on this topic are well-established, and there’s a consensus among researchers and veterinarians that spaying is essential to prevent the disease.
Data shows that spayed female dogs are much less likely to develop the disease, as one of the main factors leading to breast cancer is hormonal changes throughout the cycle, which cease after spaying. However , the right time to perform the procedure should be discussed with your veterinarian.
Contraceptives, a great villain
Today, another consensus in veterinary medicine is that hormonal contraceptives should not be used for pets without a veterinary prescription.
This is because indiscriminate sale and use have increased cases of breast tumors in dogs , among other diseases. This is even more evident in cats, who can develop cancer shortly after the first application of the product.
Another form of prevention is controlling the female’s weight, as obesity is a risk factor for this cancer. Regular veterinary visits are also essential for early detection of small breast lumps.
