GI Cancer in Dogs

GI (gastrointestinal) or stomach cancer is not as common in dogs as other cancers. According to the National Canine Cancer Foundation, GI cancer accounts for less than 1 percent of all cancers. It strikes primarily older dogs over the age of 8 years of age and affects males more often than females.

  1. Identification

    • The GI tract includes the stomach and is responsible for digesting food. The most common type of GI cancer in dogs is adenocarcinomas; however, other types of cancer can invade the GI system. These may include lymphoma and mast cell tumors.

    Symptoms

    • Some of the symptoms of GI cancer in dogs are vomiting (often with blood), weight loss and weakness. These symptoms may be present for weeks or months before a diagnosis of cancer is made.

    Diagnostic Testing

    • The tests used to diagnose GI cancer in dogs are X rays and abdominal ultrasound. A biopsy may be necessary in order to make a correct diagnosis of cancer. This is done by gastroscopy, which uses a small scope to examine the stomach.

    Treatment

    • Surgery is most often the course of treatment taken for GI cancer in dogs. This is done if the tumor is localized and the cancer has not spread to the dog's other vital organs.

    Considerations

    • If your dog exhibits any of the symptoms of GI cancer, contact your veterinarian immediately. It is important to note that, even with surgery to remove the tumor, many dogs will experience recurrent tumors or the cancer will spread.