Animal Cancer Update – Squamous cell carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma is a common cancer of the skin and mouth in dogs and cats. The skin form is typically the result, as in people, of excessive sun exposure, but not necessarily sunburn. Skin cancer is often best frozen or surgically removed, and your local veterinarian is often the best person to do this, without the need for referral to a specialist. However, in some situations your pet will benefit from the expertise of a veterinary oncologist.

When the cancer occurs in the mouth, it is not the result of sunlight exposure – the cause is unknown, though for cats it has been associated with household smoke. In cats, the disease is particularly aggressive and generally not curable. Surgery can be done, but must be aggressive. For dogs, the prognosis can be better, and for some, cure is a likely outcome.

Your veterinarian will advise you on how best to commence diagnosing and treating your pet’s tumour. At some point, a specialist opinion may be helpful to offer advice, or to commence treatment.