Canine mammary cancer is caused by a tumor in one or more of a dog's mammary gland. It is a treatable type of cancer if caught early enough and can possibly be prevented by spaying as soon as possible prior to its first heat. If it reaches the advanced stages, it is typically not curable and surgery is recommended to increase the dog's comfort and improve its quality of life.
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Benign Versus Malignant Tumors
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It is difficult to determine without a biopsy if a tumor is benign or malignant. In more advanced stages, a tumor is noticeable toward the back of the legs in the mammary area. There is typically swelling and a growth which can be detected to the touch.
Mastitiis and Mammary Gland Cancer
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Mastitis, an inflammation of the breast tissue, can be indicative of advanced mammary gland cancer. If swelling is still present after treatment for mastitis, which is usually resolved with antibiotic therapy, mammary gland cancer is typically a possibility.
Signs of Inflammatory Carcinoma
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Inflammatory carcinoma is an aggressive mammary cancer, which presents itself by inflaming itself and causing redness and pain in the affected area.
Signs in the Skin
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There are other telltale signs of the skin which can manifest from advanced canine mammary cancer. Bruising as well as external bleeding in the mammary area are indicators of possible cancer.
Respiratory Difficulties
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Respiratory difficulties can be another symptom of advanced canine mammary cancer. A dog may have difficulty breathing and experience coughing.
Listlessness
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A dog with advanced canine mammary cancer may appear listless. The dog may have no interest in exercise and a diminished appetite.
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