The throat involves the esophagus, the trachea and the larynx. In dogs, cancer can affect any one of these portions of the throat. Fortunately, cancer affecting the throat is relatively rare in dogs.
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Symptoms
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Symptoms of cancer affecting a portion of the canine throat include weight loss, painful swallowing, difficulty eating, regurgitation, coughing, exercise intolerance and a change in the voice or bark of the dog.
Diagnosis
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To diagnose canine throat cancer, tests include x-rays, biopsy samples, esophagram and esophagoscopy.
Treatment
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Treatment will vary based on the dog, the advancement and the type of cancer and can include surgical removal, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Food
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Most dogs with throat cancer will require a special diet to help maintain health. Some dogs will require appetite stimulation medications, feeding tubes or IV tubes, but some dogs may continue eating on their own.
Prognosis
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Due to the vast number of factors affecting the prognosis of a dog suffering from throat cancer, the prognosis can range from extremely good to extremely poor.
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