Symptoms of skin cancer in dogs

Once you know what to look for, you may be able to recognise the potential symptoms of skin cancer in your dog. Common signs of skin cancer in dogs include:

• Unusual lumps or bumps on the skin
• Sores that don’t heal
• Bleeding or discharge from the skin
• Changes in the appearance of a mole or wart
• Itching or discomfort in specific areas

Types of skin cancer in dogs

Mast cell tumours in dogs

Mast cell tumours are a common type of skin cancer in dogs – they appear most commonly as raised, often pink or red in colour, circular, sometimes ulcerated lumps on the skin and can develop almost anywhere on your pet’s body. They can develop under the skin also, wherein you would feel a firm, rounded lump, under the skin. The cause isn’t entirely understood, but genetic factors and environmental influences can play a role. Breeds such as boxers, English bulldogs, golden retrievers, cocker spaniels and Boston terriers are typically at a higher risk for developing these.

Melanoma in dogs

Melanomas are tumours that originate from pigment-producing cells in the skin. They tend to appear most commonly in a dog’s mouth, toes and on the skin. Though commonly black in colour, they can be non-pigmented or mottled. They can also be difficult to identify, as sometimes they will be a distinct, round mass, but other times a raised, flat-topped area. Melanoma in dogs can be benign or malignant, with malignant tumours being more aggressive and invasive. Melanoma of the mouth and toes are commonly malignant, whereas those on the skin are more often benign. A few breeds are more prone to developing melanoma, including miniature poodles, cocker spaniels and golden retrievers.

Squamous cell carcinomas in dogs

A squamous cell carcinoma is a type of malignant tumour that affects areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to sunlight, particularly the nose, ears and abdomen. They often appear as a firm, raised mass with a rough surface. Breeds with short or thin coats are often more susceptible, such as boxers, German shorthaired pointers and beagles.

Symptoms of skin cancer in cats

Skin cancer symptoms in cats can be subtle, making ongoing vigilance important for cat owners. A few common signs of skin cancer in cats you can look out for include:

• Lumps or growths on the skin
• Persistent sores,wounds or scabs 
• Redness or swelling in specific areas
• Changes in skin pigmentation
• Hair loss in localised areas

Types of skin cancer in cats

Mast cell tumours in cats

Mast cell tumours in cats tend to appear as solitary, raised nodules on the skin. They are usually benign but sometimes can become malignant. The cause of these tumours isn’t well understood, but older cats are more commonly affected.

Basal cell carcinoma in cats

These slow-growing cancers originate from the basal cells in your cat’s skin. They usually present as a firm, raised mass with a smooth or ulcerated surface. More common in older cats, this type of cancer can have a higher incidence in Himalayan, Persian and Siamese breeds.

Squamous cell carcinomas in cats

Squamous cell carcinoma in cats is often linked to prolonged sun exposure, often showing up in areas with little hair, especially around their nose, ears and eyelids. They look like red, crusty lesions that won’t heal by themself. This is often seen as a scab, that lifts away, exposing ulcerated tissue underneath, which then scabs over again. This process repeats, removing more tissue each time, creating deeper ulcerations and tissue loss. If you have a white or light-coloured cat, know they tend to be more prone to this type of cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma of the mouth is often seen as a raised, pink/red, fleshy or ulcerated region within the mouth and is highly invasive. 

Treatment Options

• Surgery: Treatment for most skin cancers involves surgical removal of the tumour and some surrounding tissue to ensure complete excision.

• Radiation therapy: Used for tumours that can’t be easily removed with surgery or when surgery alone is insufficient.

• Chemotherapy: May be recommended for certain types of cancer or when the cancer has spread.

• Cryotherapy: Involves freezing small, superficial tumours with liquid nitrogen.

The AREN Network’s veterinary specialists have the expert training and modern equipment to diagnose and treat skin cancer in your pet. Find your nearest emergency vet centre to see a list of services available and seek professional advice.