Oncology for Pets: Navigating Cancer Care
When you discover a lump on your beloved companion, it’s natural to feel a mix of worry and uncertainty. Should a cancer diagnosis follow, early detection and expert care can make all the difference. At Vetmed, we’re here to guide you through every step, offering much more than a quick check-up. With advanced diagnostic tools, tailored treatments, and compassionate support, we help you and your pet face cancer with confidence and clarity.
This article will teach you what pet cancer looks like (and how common it is in Australia), why early detection is crucial, how Vetmed handles diagnosis and treatment, where this care happens, when to act, and who stands beside you and your pet through every stage.
Understanding Cancer in Pets
Cancer is more common in pets than many realise. In Australia, approximately one in three dogs will face cancer in their lifetime1. National data also shows that about one in five cats experience cancer during their lives2.
Common types include:
Mast cell tumours, accounting for about 20% of skin tumours in dogs, which can range from benign to highly malignant.
Mammary tumours, especially in unspayed female dogs. Dogs spayed before their first heat have a very low risk (only ~0.5%), compared to ~3.4% overall in female dogs.
Other cancers like lymphoma, osteosarcoma, and various skin or soft tissue tumours are also seen, some with more aggressive behaviour, others managed effectively with early intervention.
Early Detection Changes the Outcome
Early detection is vital. Many lumps may be benign, but 20–30% of skin tumours in dogs and over 50% in cats turn out to be malignant.
With prompt diagnosis and treatment, the outlook improves drastically. Cancer caught early often means simpler surgery and a much greater chance of recovery.
How Vetmed Approaches Pet Oncology
At Vetmed, we’ve built an oncology pathway designed to be thorough, compassionate, and efficient.
1. Spotting the Signs – What to Watch For
Regular grooming appointments are a great time to check for new lumps or bumps. Be alert if a growth changes size, bleeds, ulcerates, or impacts your pet’s behaviour.
2. State-of-the-Art Diagnostics
Fine-Needle Aspiration (FNA): A quick and minimally invasive way to collect cells for analysis.
Ultrasound & Imaging: These tools help us examine deeper tissue involvement.
Biopsy & Histopathology: If FNA isn’t conclusive, a tiny tissue sample helps us determine the exact cancer type and stage.
3. Tailored Treatment Options
Surgical removal remains the cornerstone for many tumours, especially if caught early.
Chemotherapy, targeted therapies, or radiation may be added depending on the diagnosis and extent.
Supportive and palliative care like pain management and nutritional support is always included when needed.
4. Seamless, In-House Care
All diagnostics and treatments are performed at our clinics, no outside referrals needed unless absolutely required. This means your pet can receive immediate attention, and you can stay informed and supported every step of the way.
Rapid Access to Expert Oncology
With four Vetmed locations across Sydney: Lindfield, Randwick, Forestville, and Northbridge – care is nearby when it matters most. If you notice a lump or anything unusual, the sooner we see it, the more options we’ll have for effective treatment.
Our Team and Your Support System
Behind every diagnosis and treatment plan is a team of dedicated veterinary surgeons, nurses, and support staff passionate about oncology and your pet’s wellbeing. From the moment you walk in, we treat you and your pet with empathy, clarity, and a commitment to doing what’s best.