Dog Oral Cancer: Early Detection Saves Lives!

Oral Cancer in Dogs: A Silent Threat That Requires Prompt Attention
Oral cancer is a relatively common condition in dogs, especially in senior pets. It often starts as a small, seemingly harmless lump in the mouth but can grow and cause serious health complications if left untreated. Today, we’ll take you through an in-depth understanding of how oral cancer in dogs is treated, using a real-life case and expert insights from the oncology team at Erawan Pet Hospital, to help pet owners understand the importance of early detection and timely treatment.

When a Small Lump Becomes a Silent Danger
A lump in a dog’s mouth may initially appear small and painless. However, over time it can grow larger and lead to pain, making it difficult for your dog to eat, resulting in weight loss, weakness, and a decline in quality of life.

At Erawan Pet Hospital, we recently treated a case involving a middle-aged dog (5+ years old) that showed signs of oral pain and difficulty eating. Using advanced diagnostic tools such as cytology and biopsy, our veterinary team discovered that the lump had signs of necrosis (dead tissue) and was likely a malignant tumor, with potential to spread to the lymph nodes or vital organs like the lungs and liver.

The Risks of Delayed Treatment
If oral cancer is not treated promptly, it may lead to severe complications, such as oral infections or metastasis (spread of cancer to other parts of the body). This not only complicates the treatment process but also lowers the chance of a successful outcome—especially in elderly dogs with weaker immune systems. Effective treatment planning must take into account multiple factors, including the dog’s age, overall health, and the stage of the cancer, in order to maximize success and minimize discomfort.


Surgery: A Carefully Planned Approach
Surgical removal is often the primary treatment for oral cancer, especially if the tumor is detected in its early stages. However, for older dogs, surgery must be planned with extreme care. At Erawan Pet Hospital, our surgical team employs advanced technology and precision techniques to remove the tumor while minimizing the risk of recurrence and preserving essential oral functions such as chewing and swallowing.

In some cases, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be used alongside surgery to help prevent the cancer from spreading further—particularly when the disease has started to metastasize.

Early Detection: The Key to a Successful Outcome
Owners should regularly check their dog’s mouth for abnormalities such as lumps, foul breath, non-healing wounds, or signs of pain while eating. If any of these symptoms are present, seek veterinary attention immediately. Annual health check-ups are crucial—especially for pets aged 7 years and older or those in high-risk breeds such as Golden Retrievers or German Shepherds. Early detection greatly increases the chances of successful treatment.


Erawan Pet Hospital: Advanced Oncology Services for Pets
At Erawan Pet Hospital, we offer comprehensive cancer care for pets. Our experienced veterinary oncology team uses modern diagnostic and treatment technologies, including tumor surgery and chemotherapy, to improve your pet’s quality of life. We also provide personalized guidance to pet owners on how to care for their pets after treatment, helping prevent recurrence and promote long-term health.

Recommendations for Pet Owners
Schedule annual health check-ups: Regular veterinary visits are essential, especially as pets age, to catch potential health issues early.
Watch for unusual symptoms: Difficulty eating, bad breath, or visible oral lumps should prompt an immediate veterinary consultation.
Maintain oral hygiene: Regular tooth brushing and oral examinations help reduce the risk of oral diseases, including cancer.
Choose a hospital with specialized oncology services for pets: Cancer treatment requires skilled veterinarians and advanced equipment for the best outcomes.

Oral cancer in dogs is a serious condition that should never be ignored. If you notice a growing lump or signs of discomfort in your pet, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment—whether surgery or chemotherapy—can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.

Erawan Pet Hospital is here to support your pet’s cancer journey with professional care and compassion. Contact our Advanced Pet Oncology Center for a complete diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your pet’s needs.