Dog Brain Cancer Symptoms

Brain cancer symptoms in dogs can vary widely, depending on the severity of the cancer. Brain cancer in dogs is a very serious and potentially fatal condition, and it important for pet owners to be aware of the signs of cancer. The earlier the cancer is caught in your pet, the better his prognosis will be. If you suspect your pet is showing signs or symptoms of brain cancer, contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Understanding Brain Cancer in Dogs

When a tumor or growth develops on the brain of your pet, it is known as brain cancer. These tumors are caused by the uncontrolled division of cells within the body. Once the cancer has spread to other areas of the body, the chances for recovery are very slim. This is why it is crucial to catch the signs early on to ensure the best chance for recovery.

Signs and Symptoms of Canine Brain Cancer

Signs of brain cancer will vary depending on how far along the cancer has progressed, but the most common symptoms associated with brain cancer are as follows:

  • Staggering or unsteadiness
  • Trouble recognizing people who are familiar
  • Aggression
  • Loss of bladder control
  • Loss of appetite
  • Poor eyesight
  • Loss of hearing
  • Heavy breathing
  • Head shaking
  • Seizures
  • Crying or whimpering
  • Depression
  • Excessive urination
  • Decreased awareness
  • Bumping into objects or walls
  • Loss of balance
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Fixed eyes or expression
  • Coma
  • Tilted head
  • Leaning to one side
  • Involuntary head movements
  • Vomiting
  • Confusion
  • Signs of pain

Signs of brain cancer in dogs can come on slowly, or show up suddenly without warning. If you notice one or more of these symptoms of brain cancer in your pet, contact a veterinarian promptly. Failure to address the symptoms may lead to premature death. Brain cancer is often fatal, and prognosis is poor for severe cases of the condition.

Diagnosing Brain Cancer in Dogs

Diagnosing brain tumors and cancer in dogs can include the following methods of testing:

  • Biopsy
  • Chest and stomach x-ray
  • CT-scan
  • MRI-scan
  • Testing for clinical signs and symptoms

Treatment Options for Brain Cancer in Dogs

Once brain cancer has been identified in your pet, there are several possible treatment options for the condition. If the cancer has not already spread to other organs in the body, the chances for recovery will be much better. Common treatments for brain cancer include the following:

Risk Factors Associated with Canine Brain Cancer

There is evidence to suggest that brain cancer in dogs may have several risk factors involved. Risk factors for developing brain cancer can include:

  • Age - Dogs over the age of 6 years have a much higher risk of developing any type of cancer.
  • Certain Breeds - Breeds of the short-nosed type have a much higher occurrence of brain cancer and tumors than other breeds. This includes Boston Terriers, English Bulldogs, and Boxers. In addition, Golden Retrievers have been shown to develop brain cancer more than other breeds of canines.
  • Head injuries - Severe head injury has been linked to the development of tumors later on.
  • Exposure to pesticides
  • Genetic predisposition - Certain dogs are born with genes that make them more prone to developing cancer and tumors.

 

 

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