Mammary Gland Tumor Removal in Dogs and Cats
Early Detection and Surgical Care for a Healthier Future
Mammary gland tumors are among the most common types of tumors in unspayed female dogs and cats, particularly as they age. While some of these growths are benign, many are malignant and can spread if not addressed early. At Whittington Veterinary Clinic, we offer thorough evaluation and surgical removal of mammary tumors with the goal of improving your pet’s comfort, health, and long-term prognosis.
Why Mammary Tumors Occur
Mammary tumors develop in the breast tissue and are most often influenced by hormonal factors, especially in pets that are not spayed or were spayed later in life. They are more common in:
- Unspayed female dogs over 5 years old
- Female cats not spayed before their first or second heat cycle
- Certain breeds, such as Poodles, Dachshunds, and Siamese cats
- Pets with prolonged hormone exposure (including hormone-based medications)
About 50% of mammary tumors in dogs and over 85% in cats are malignant, making early diagnosis and treatment critical.
Signs of a Mammary Tumor
Check your pet regularly for:
- Lumps or nodules along the belly or near the nipples
- Swelling, discharge, or redness around the mammary glands
- Ulcerated or bleeding masses
- Pain or sensitivity in the chest or abdominal area
- Behavioral changes such as lethargy or loss of appetite
If you notice any of these signs, schedule a veterinary exam as soon as possible. Early detection significantly improves outcomes.
How We Diagnose and Treat Mammary Tumors
Our process includes:
- Physical exam and medical history
- Imaging (such as chest x-rays) to check for metastasis
- Bloodwork to evaluate your pet’s overall health
- Surgical removal of the tumor, and in some cases, surrounding glands or entire chains of mammary tissue
- Histopathology (lab testing) of the tumor to determine if it’s benign or malignant
In many cases, surgery is curative—especially if the tumor is caught early and has not spread.
What to Expect During Surgery and Recovery
- Surgery is performed under general anesthesia with full monitoring
- The extent of removal depends on tumor size, location, and whether multiple glands are involved
- Most pets go home the same day or next, with pain management and aftercare instructions
- Recovery includes rest, incision care, and a follow-up appointment to discuss lab results
If the tumor is found to be malignant, further diagnostics or treatment (such as chest imaging or referral to oncology) may be recommended.
How to Help Prevent Mammary Tumors
The most effective prevention is spaying your pet early, ideally:
- Before the first heat cycle in cats and dogs
- Before 6 months of age for maximum risk reduction
Early spaying reduces the risk of mammary cancer by over 90%. In contrast, the risk increases significantly with each heat cycle.
Concerned About a Lump? We’re Here to Help.
If you’ve found a mass or have questions about mammary tumors in your pet, please call us at (337) 893-8522. We’ll evaluate your pet and provide compassionate, expert care every step of the way—from diagnosis to treatment and beyond.