Bladder Cancer in Dogs: Vet-Verified Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment
Did you know that bladder cancer accounts for only about 2% of all cancer cases in dogs? However, it remains a serious condition that pet owners should be aware of. Interestingly, certain breeds, such as Scottish Terriers, Beagles, Wire Hair Fox Terriers, and Fox Terriers, tend to develop bladder cancer more compared to others.
In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about this very serious disease. It's important to emphasize that detecting bladder cancer early can mean the difference between life and death for an affected dog.
What Exactly is Bladder Cancer in Dogs?
The urinary bladder is a balloon-like organ located in the lower abdomen, responsible for storing urine. Its structure consists of a muscular wall that stretches to accommodate varying amounts of urine, and it is lined with a protective mucous membrane.
Urine is produced by the kidneys, and together with the bladder, these organs play a vital role in eliminating toxins from your pet’s body.
Bladder cancer occurs when cells multiply without control. The most common form of bladder cancer is located in the muscle layer.
How Common Is Bladder Cancer in Dogs?
About 2% of all tumors in dogs are bladder tumors; therefore, it is a rare cancer. The most common form of bladder cancer in dogs is called transitional cell carcinoma (TCC)—in 90-95% of cases. This form of cancer can have an intermediate to high grade.
Tumor grading refers to describing tumor cells under a microscope—whether they appear normal or abnormal. The more abnormal they are, the higher the grading and the worse the prognosis (chance of survival/recovery or recurrence).
Bladder cancers are typically made up of malignant cancer cells
TCC is a malignant cancer (i.e., it metastasizes at a distance—it spreads to the other organs and tissues of the body). This cancer develops in the mucous layer (from the transition cells in this layer). Unlike humans, TCC in dogs is invasive and can grow and spread quickly throughout their body. In dogs, TCC can also invade the muscular layer of the urinary bladder. The bigger the bladder tumor, the more it can block the urine flow.
Although this type of cancer is most often found in the bladder, TCC can also occur in the kidneys, urethra, ureters, or prostate. It can even metastasize to the liver, lungs, and lymph nodes.
Another type of bladder cancer in dogs is leiomyosarcoma. This is a rare type of bladder cancer—it usually occurs in the gastrointestinal tract.
What Causes Bladder Cancer in Dogs?
The exact causes of bladder cancer in dogs are not known. In general, several factors contribute to the occurrence of bladder cancer, such as genetic predisposition, environmental, physical, and chemical factors, sex, recurrent infections, or polyps.
Genetic predisposition: Certain breeds are at higher risk of developing bladder cancer. These include Scottish Terriers (have an 18-20 times higher bladder cancer risk), Beagles, Westies, Fox Terriers, American Eskimo Dogs, Australian Cattle Dogs and Shepherds, Border Collies, Russel Terriers, and their half-breeds.
Environmental factors: Pollution, pesticides, insecticides, and second-hand smoke can increase the risk of bladder cancer in dogs. Recent studies show that Scottish Terriers living in environments with second-hand smoke had higher rates of bladder cancer.
Additionally, chronic exposure to herbicides and pesticides used on lawns has been linked to an increased risk of transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) in this breed. Dogs exposed to these chemicals had a significantly higher chance of developing TCC. To reduce the risk of bladder cancers, it is recommended that Scottish Terriers be kept off treated lawns.
Chemical factors: Chlorine in drinking water and some drugs can lead in time to bladder cancer in dogs.
Physical factors: Bladder stones (urolithiasis) that can be triggered by a urinary tract infection or bladder infection, have a local mechanical-irritating action. In time, they can lead to the development of bladder tumors.
Sex: Male dogs are three times more prone in developing bladder cancer than females, with a 3:1 ratio.
Persistent urinary tract infections: Although it is not exactly known if persistent urinary infections lead to bladder cancer, there is a possibility that these recurrent infections increase the risk of developing this type of cancer. In humans, studies show that people with persistent urinary infections develop bladder cancer over time (being more prevalent in men).
Bladder polyps as a precancerous lesion: Although bladder polyps are benign (non-cancerous), they can become cancerous when the cells grow quickly and spread to other organs.
Symptoms of Bladder Cancer in Dogs
Bladder cancer in dogs used to occur in pets aged 7-8 years old. However, new data shows that the age of appearance of this type of cancer has dropped to 3-4 years. Early signs of bladder cancer in dogs may include the following:
- Frequent urination with small amounts of urine
- Difficulty urinating
- Urinary accidents in the house
Other clinical signs of bladder cancer in dogs may include:
- Low appetite
- Weight loss
- Bloody urine (hematuria)
- Lethargy
It's essential to visit the vet for an accurate diagnosis, as properly diagnosing bladder cancer is crucial for timely treatment. Additionally, the common symptoms of bladder cancer mimic those of other urinary tract conditions, so it is important to be sure.
What Are the Final Stages of Bladder Cancer in Dogs?
The disease can progress so much that it will end up affecting other tissues or organs. The final stages of bladder cancer in dogs may include the following clinical signs:
- Shortness of breath (when the cancer spread to the lungs)
- Lameness and sitting and walking issues (when the cancer spread to the bones)
- Constant pacing
- Vomiting
- Refusal of food (anorexia)
- Further weight loss
- Painful abdomen
- Behavioral changes
Bladder cancer in dogs can cause pain when your pet is straining to urinate or when it spreads to the bones. So, it is best to talk to a vet or an oncologist about pain management.
Bladder Cancer in Dogs: When to Euthanize?
In the final stages of urinary bladder cancer, humane euthanasia may be necessary to prevent your pet from suffering. If full surgical removal is not possible and the tumor fully blocks the passage of urine, a dog may only survive 1-2 days. In such cases, euthanasia should be considered to relieve pain and suffering.
Bladder Cancer in Dogs: When to Contact the Vet?
You should contact your vet if you notice any changes in your dog’s routine, such as straining to urinate, having accidents in the house, difficulty breathing, vomiting, or loss of appetite. Early detection is crucial, as it can increase your dog’s chances of successful treatment and survival.
This is especially important if your pet has impaired kidney function or frequent urinary tract infections. Keep in mind that, regardless of your dog's overall health, bladder cancer can still develop.
How Is Bladder Cancer in Dogs Diagnosed?
Bladder cancer, as well as prostate cancer, are among the most aggressive and most difficult to detect. Accurately diagnosing bladder cancer requires a series of tests and exams are necessary, such as:
- Clinical examination of the pet: The physical examination will highlight various changes (presence of pain, color of mucous membranes, coat's aspect, proprioception, lameness, etc.)
- Abdominal ultrasound: It is easily done when there is a satisfactory urine volume in the bladder. The ultrasound allows the identification of abnormal growths; the tumor's presence is accompanied by localized changes in the bladder wall.
- Urinary cytological examination: This exam evaluates the cell types that are found in the urine. In the case of cancer, cancerous cells will be found in the urine; in this way, the cancer can also be diagnosed (what type of cancer it is).
- Cystoscopy: The purpose of this exam is to evaluate the bladder’s mucosa for possible growth.
- CADET Braf testing: A diagnostic DNA test that detects the presence of a single mutation present in 85% of confirmed TCC cases.
- Tumor biopsy: Through this exam, the pathologist can tell what kind of cancer it is (its type) and whether it is low-grade or high-grade.
- Blood tests especially blood biochemistry
- Urine summary
Prognosis for dogs with bladder cancer
High-grade cancers like invasive transitional cell carcinoma are aggressive, with rapid growth and spread. As a result, the prognosis is often poor. Without treatment, dogs typically survive 4-6 months after diagnosis, while those receiving treatment may survive 6-12 months.
How Is Bladder Cancer in Dogs Treated?
Regarding the treatment of bladder cancer in dogs, the therapy can be local, general, or a combination of them.
Local therapy
This treatment strategy involves the surgical removal of the tumor from the urinary bladder in cases where this is possible. Not all urinary tumors are operable—sometimes, due to the location of the tumor, its complete surgical removal may be impossible and, then, partial removal will be resorted to relieve your dog's symptoms.
Keep in mind that the tumor will grow back after a while if it is partially removed. Local therapy can also involve radiation therapy—this therapy is successfully used to control transitional cell carcinoma in dogs.
General therapy
This includes cytostatic drugs (ifosfamide, carboplatin, vinblastine, mitoxantrone). Also, certain NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), such as Meloxicam and Piroxicam, have proven to be effective in the treatment of transitional cell carcinoma in dogs. However, these NSAIDs have a better effect when they are administered in combination with some chemotherapy treatment drugs.
Combined therapy
As the name suggests, this treatment plan for bladder cancer includes multiple approaches. Surgery is typically performed first to remove the tumor, followed by radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
Alternative Treatment: Can Bladder Cancer in Dogs Be Treated Naturally?
Did your vet find that your dog has bladder cancer, and you do not want those harsh medicines to harm your pup even more? Well, if this is the case, here at Zumalka, you can find natural products that support your dog's health and help them fight against bladder cancer.
PIPTOPET as a gentler alternative when dealing with bladder cancers
One of the exceptional products for supporting your dog’s health is PIPTOPET. This powerful formula offers a range of benefits, especially for dogs dealing with serious health challenges like cancer. The key ingredient in PIPTOPET is the medicinal mushroom, Fomitopsis betulina Its key benefits include anti-inflammatory, anti-tumoral, antibacterial, and antiviral properties.
PIPTOPET helps reduce oxidative stress, promotes antioxidant function, and supports vital detoxification systems, all crucial for slowing tumor growth and aiding the body’s natural healing processes. When combined with traditional treatments like surgery or chemotherapy, PIPTOPET can enhance their effectiveness and potentially improve your dog’s life expectancy. By boosting the immune system, PIPTOPET supports a healthier, more vibrant life for pets, even when facing serious illnesses.
CBD oil (cannabidiol) is another supplement you can give your dog with bladder cancer. Studies show that CBD oil reduces cell viability and induces cell death. Combinations of CBD oil with some chemotherapeutics (vinblastine and mitoxantrone) led to even better results.
Bladder cancer and urinary issues can greatly affect your pet’s health and quality of life. Homeopathy treats the whole body by addressing symptoms through the principle of "like cures like"—using small, diluted amounts of a substance to treat symptoms it would cause in a healthy body. This gentle, holistic approach supports your pet's healing.
URINARY TRACT SUPPORT helps prevent persistent urinary tract infections
One such remedy is URINARY TRACT SUPPORT, which is specifically designed to help pets dealing with urinary system issues, including symptoms of bladder cancer. This natural product works by supporting the bladder and kidneys, helping to relieve discomfort, dissolve crystals or stones, and restore proper urinary function.
The effectiveness of Urinary Tract Support lies in its combination of powerful homeopathic ingredients, including ingredients in the product, and how they can help with symptoms.
- Berberis 30k: Helps with kidney and bladder inflammation, and relieves pain from stones.
- Cantharis 30k: Eases burning sensations during urination, which is a common symptom of bladder cancer.
- Nitricum Acidum 30k: Reduces bleeding and promotes healing in the urinary tract.
- Pareira Brava 30k: Supports the ease of urination, especially when there is difficulty or pain.
How Do You Provide the Ideal Supportive Care for Dogs with Bladder Cancer?
Unfortunately, dogs suffering from transitional cell carcinoma present a higher risk of urinary tract infections.
These infections are sometimes difficult to diagnose because bloody urine is a clinical sign that can be found in both conditions. Cystocentesis (urine collection by puncture) is contraindicated in such cases because there is a risk of seeding the tumor with bacteria.
As a result, it is recommended to administer antibiotics when your dog's urine has an unpleasant smell. In addition, the vet may recommend cranberry supplementation, which could reduce the incidence of infections at this level.
Post-operative care in dogs with bladder cancer
Post-operative care may include the following:
- Limit your dog's activity - no running, jumping, playing, swimming, or other strenuous activities.
- Keep your pet clean and dry. Therefore, do not bathe your dog or let them swim during the recovery period.
- Keep the incision clean and dry to reduce the risk of infection.
In general, these restrictions apply for 10-14 days, but your veterinarian will recommend what is best for your dog depending on its condition.
How do I make my dog comfortable with bladder cancer?
Here's what you can do for your dog to make their life better if they suffer from bladder cancer:
- Access to water and food should be done with ease.
- Create a comfortable place for them to rest.
- Administer your pet’s medication when it is the right time.
- Monitor their state of health: urination, appetite, energy level, vomiting, pain, hydration, etc.
- Contact the veterinarian if your dog's condition worsens.
About the author
Hi Debbie, Thank you for your comment. I am so sorry to hear that your dog has bladder cancer! I hope that you have found this article helpful. Also, for more personalized help for your dog, we have sent you a private email so we can understand better the full situation she is in so we can give you targeted recommendations to help.
We look forward to helping you and your beloved dog!
Regards,
Homeoanimal.com
My dog is going thru the text of finding out if she has bladder cancer. She’s very attactive eats well. But she had a uti. I rescued her and I know she has had a rough life. She has had huge puppies. A hernia operation I had done. The puppies where huge in her she is about 19 lbs. she is said to be 5 to 7 yrs old. She rescued me after I lost a terrier that looks so much like her. I don’t want to lose this dog and need your help. Thank you.
Leave a comment