Surgery can be used if there is a mass that is well defined and in an area that will not jeopardize other organs. If a tumor is removed surgically it is best to have it submitted for histopathology. This allows for diagnosis of tumor type which helps the veterinarian predict the behavior of that particular type of cancer. Pathology also lets the veterinarian know if the borders around the tumor were normal tissue or if tumor cells were present. This is important in order to determine if further surgery or other treatments will be needed.
Chemotherapy is another treatment modality that is available for pets with cancer.
Most pets receiving chemotherapy feel good, they generally do not get sick or lose their hair. Certain breeds of dogs will lose their undercoats and cats will lose their whiskers, but overall animals tolerate the drugs very well. Bone marrow suppression leads to a low white blood cell count and increases the risk of infection. However, with appropriate monitoring, chemotherapy is a good option for many pets. The final treatment available is radiation therapy.