Mammary Gland Cancer
At Goodna Vet, we're dedicated to providing expert care for pets diagnosed with mammary gland cancer. This condition, which can manifest as single or multiple lumps within the mammary glands, affects both dogs and cats, with a higher risk in females that are not desexed. Our skilled veterinary team offers comprehensive diagnostic services to identify these tumours, followed by personalised treatment plans that may include surgical removal or mastectomy, depending on the extent of the disease. By choosing Goodna Vet, you're ensuring your pet receives compassionate care aimed at maximising recovery and quality of life. Discover how we can support your pet through their treatment journey with the latest in veterinary medicine and surgery.
Mammary Gland Cancer in Pets: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Care at Goodna Vet
What is Mammary Gland Cancer?
Mammary gland cancer in pets manifests as single or multiple masses within the mammary glands, with the potential to be either benign or malignant. In dogs, approximately 50% of these growths are malignant, indicating a likelihood of spreading, while the rate escalates to about 90% in cats. This condition predominantly affects female pets that have not been desexed or were desexed after reaching two years of age. However, desexing a dog before its first heat cycle dramatically reduces the risk of developing mammary gland cancer to less than 1%.
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Diagnosis
Typically, these tumours are initially detected as very hard lumps within the mammary tissue, resembling stones. Without treatment, they tend to grow and may eventually break through the skin, potentially leading to infections and other secondary complications.
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Treatment Approach
Surgical removal is the primary treatment for mammary gland tumours in both dogs and cats. For isolated or a few masses in one gland, excising the affected gland may suffice. In cases where multiple glands are involved, a full mastectomy, involving the removal of all mammary glands, is usually the best course of action.
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Concurrently, if your pet has not been desexed, we strongly advocate for this procedure to be carried out simultaneously with the tumour removal.
Cost of Procedure
At Goodna Vet, the cost of removing mammary gland tumours starts from $1,200. More extensive or complex surgeries, such as a complete mastectomy, may incur higher costs.
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We do offer payment plans through credit providers. Please see our payment plans section for more information.
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Recovery and Aftercare
Pets can typically go home on the same day as their operation, with appropriate pain management provided. For larger surgical sites, we may apply a bandage to the abdomen, which is usually removed within two to five days. Suture removal is scheduled two to three weeks post-surgery, ensuring a smooth and comfortable recovery for your pet.