What Is Melanoma in Pets?
At Central Texas Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Hospital (CTVSEH), we understand how worrying a cancer diagnosis can be. Melanoma is a type of cancer originating from melanocytes—the pigment-producing cells in your pet’s skin, fur, or mouth. It’s one of the more common cancers we see in dogs, and it can also affect cats.
Melanomas may be benign or malignant. Oral and nail bed melanomas are often more aggressive and need prompt veterinary evaluation and treatment.
Signs and Symptoms of Melanoma in Pets
Keep an eye out for:
- Dark, irregular lumps on the skin or under nails
- Masses or growths in your pet’s mouth or gums
- Difficulty eating, drooling, or bad breath
- Bleeding or swelling near the tumor
- Limping or pain in a paw with a nail bed tumor
If you notice any of these signs, contact our Central Texas veterinary specialists immediately for an evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Certain breeds, like Scottish Terriers, Golden Retrievers, and Dachshunds, have a higher risk.
- Older pets are more commonly affected.
- While sun exposure is a known factor in humans, it plays a smaller role in pets.
- Darker pigmented areas on your pet are more prone to developing melanoma.
Diagnosis and Staging at CTVSEH
Our veterinary oncology team uses:
- Thorough physical exams and medical history review
- Biopsy or fine needle aspiration of suspicious lumps
- Advanced imaging (X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans) to check for metastasis
- Bloodwork to assess overall health and readiness for treatment
Accurate staging lets us tailor a treatment plan specific to your pet’s needs.
Treatment Options at Central Texas Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Hospital
- Surgery: Often the first step for localized tumors.
- Radiation Therapy: For tumors that cannot be fully removed or to treat residual cancer.
- Chemotherapy: Used for aggressive or metastatic melanomas.
- Immunotherapy: We offer cutting-edge veterinary melanoma vaccines that stimulate your pet’s immune response.
- Supportive Care: Our team focuses on comfort and quality of life, especially for advanced cases.
Prognosis: Hope for Your Pet
The outlook depends on tumor location and spread:
- Oral and nail bed melanomas tend to be more aggressive.
- Skin melanomas may be less aggressive and more treatable with early intervention.
At CTVSEH, we emphasize early detection and personalized care to give your pet the best possible outcome.
Preventive Care and Monitoring
- Perform regular checks for lumps and changes in your pet.
- Schedule routine veterinary visits with your primary vet and specialty referrals as needed.
- Contact us immediately if you notice suspicious lumps or behavioral changes.
Why Trust CTVSEH?
At Central Texas Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Hospital (CTVSEH), our board-certified oncologists, surgeons, and emergency veterinarians work together to ensure your pet receives comprehensive, compassionate care. Our hospital is equipped with advanced imaging, 24/7 emergency support, and a commitment to quality of life.
What We Offer:
- Expert oncology consultation
- Advanced diagnostics (CT, ultrasound, echocardiogram)
- Chemotherapy and supportive care
- Emergency stabilization and surgical intervention
