Diagnosing and Treating Pet Skin Cancer

1 Diagnosing and Treating Pet Skin Cancer

We said excess UV raises dog skin-cancer risk; many factors exist, including genetics.

1. Diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer

Skin cancer sounds scary—how can an owner spot it early?

First sign: a lump on the skin, small at first, growing. Also pigmentation or skin-color change. Cat skin cancer most shows on nose and bridge—sun-related squamous cell carcinoma, often crusting and eroding.

Dog skin cancer:

Most dog skin melanomas are benign, spreading little to other organs.

After surgical removal, the problem is mostly solved. But if melanoma is not fully removed or is aggressive, further treatment is needed.

Like melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma is mainly treated by surgery. It is more common in cats, rare in dogs. Once diagnosed, arrange surgery early. If surgery cannot remove all cancer cells, give the pet radiation therapy.

2. Prevention of pet skin cancer

1. Though UV’s role is debated, avoid excess exposure; do not leave pets long in harsh sun.

2. For sparse or light-coated pets, dress them outdoors to prevent sunburn; use a pet-safe sunscreen on nose and bridge.

Note: prevention only lowers risk, not eliminate it—observe your pet; any skin abnormality, consult a vet promptly for early diagnosis and treatment.