Signs of Splenic Tumors in Dogs

While a splenectomy, the surgery done to remove the spleen in instances of a tumor, is usually successful, it can still be scary if your dog is diagnosed with a splenic mass. About two thirds of all splenic growths are malignant--hemangiosarcomas, mast cell tumors, or lymphosarcoma. The remaining third, hemangiomas, are benign. Being aware of the symptoms to look for at home is very beneficial, as is taking your dog to the veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

  1. Physical Symptoms

    • One of the key signs your dog has a splenic tumor is being able to feel a large, hard mass in his abdomen. Sometimes you might even just notice that his abdomen looks distended. Another symptom that is indicative of a splenic tumor is if your dog's urine turns to a dark brown color. Pale gums and a low body temperature are also indicative of a tumor. If any of these signs is present, your dog should be examined by a veterinarian.

    Behavioral Signs

    • Seeing that your dog is especially weak and listless is common if he is suffering from a mass on his spleen. He might also sleep more often and act lethargic. If these symptoms suddenly disappear after two to three days it could be because there was internal bleeding that previously occurred due to the splenic tumor but has since stopped. If the behavioral signs improve but the physical symptoms persist, your dog should still be taken to your local animal hospital.

    Veterinarian Diagnosis

    • Your veterinarian will examine your dog thoroughly. She will take his temperature to confirm if it is low and check his gums to see if they are pale. She will also palpate his abdomen to feel for any masses that could be a splenic tumor. To accurately diagnose a tumor on his spleen she will then take x-rays and order blood work. X-rays will show where in his abdomen the mass is, though a splenic tumor can often be confused with a liver tumor due to their similar location. A blood panel will check for anemia, which would further indicate that he has a tumor on his spleen. Your veterinarian will help you decide on a course of treatment. A splenectomy for benign tumors is typically sufficient, though for malignant masses chemotherapy is generally recommended.