The disease affects up to 45% of dogs and 30% of cats
Early neutering and monitoring of owners are the main weapons against the disease in pets, warns the expert
Aimed at preventing breast cancer, the Pink October campaign is not just for women. In pets, the disease is also common and requires urgent attention from owners. A study by the Federal Council of Veterinary Medicine estimates that mammary tumors affect 45% of female dogs and approximately 30% of female cats during their lifetime.
According to Idelvania Nonato, a veterinarian specializing in animal pathology and teacher of the Veterinary Medicine course at the UniBH University Center – part of the largest and most innovative quality ecosystem in Brazil, Ecossistema Ânima – the data reveal an even more serious scenario regarding the malignancy of tumors. “About 50% of tumors in dogs are malignant mammary tumors. In cats the percentage is even worse: 80% to 90% of diagnoses”, he warns.
The disease is more common in older animals, especially between 10 and 12 years of age. However, the expert emphasizes that the absence of castration is one of the main risk factors. “Failure to neuter increases hormone release and promotes the development of cancer. The contraceptive vaccine, commonly known as “anti-heat,” applied to cats can also contribute to the disease,” explains Idelvania.
Signs of breast cancer in pets
According to the professor, the most common sign that should alert owners is the increase in volume of the mammary glands. “Any changes in the region must be investigated by a veterinarian,” emphasizes the specialist.
As with humans, the earlier the vet identifies the tumor, the greater the chance of recovery, which can reach 90%. “Depending on the condition, treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, or a combination of the two,” explains the professor, adding that professionals clinically evaluate pets through imaging tests or biopsy of the mammary glands. The biggest challenge, however, is the time it takes to seek care. “Unfortunately, many owners are slow to contact medical services. The later the diagnosis, the greater the risk of metastasis, that is, of spreading the disease to other organs of the animal, and this scenario is the most common,” he complains.
Prevention begins with neutering
To drastically reduce the risks of the disease, the number one recommendation from veterinarians is early neutering. “Neutering females as early as possible increases the chances of avoiding hormonal disorders,” he advises.
Idelvania also reminds you that, in Belo Horizonte, zoonosis centers offer free castration by appointment. Additionally, primary prevention habits are also essential. “It is important to maintain an adequate diet for each phase of the animal and monitor its weight, avoiding metabolic syndromes that can favor the disease.”
The tutor’s gaze makes the difference
Unlike women, pets do not undergo regular screening tests, such as mammograms. Therefore, the tutor’s role in monitoring is crucial. “We advise owners to regularly palpate the mammary gland and immediately seek professional help when any changes are noticed,” explains the veterinarian.
Idelvania adds that the possibility of recurrence (recurrence of the disease after recovery) exists and depends on the type of tumor, the age of the animal, the stage at which it was diagnosed and the response to treatment. “Each case must be monitored carefully to define the best course of action over time”, he underlines.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
