Bladder Cancer in Dogs

Bladder cancer in dogs, though relatively rare, is a serious condition that can cause significant distress and discomfort for both pets and their owners. It is most commonly diagnosed in older dogs, with certain breeds and gender predispositions, and often presents as a complicated and emotionally challenging situation. 

This article will cover everything you need to know about bladder cancer in dogs.

What Is Bladder Cancer in Dogs?

Bladder cancer in dogs primarily refers to transitional cell carcinoma (TCC), a malignant tumor that arises from the transitional cells lining the bladder. It is the most common type of bladder cancer in dogs, accounting for around 70% of all bladder tumors. TCC is a highly aggressive cancer that tends to grow and spread quickly to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, liver, and lungs.

Bladder cancer can affect both female dogs and male dogs, although certain gender and breed-related predispositions influence its occurrence.

Bladder Cancer in Female Dogs:

Female dogs are more likely to develop bladder cancer compared to males, primarily due to hormonal influences. The risk increases with age, especially in unspayed female dogs. Hormones such as estrogen have been implicated in the development of certain cancers, including those of the bladder.

Bladder Cancer in Male Dogs:

While bladder cancer is more common in females, male dogs are still at risk, particularly older dogs. Male dogs that have been neutered are somewhat at a lower risk, though they are not immune. Additionally, large breed dogs tend to develop bladder cancer more often than smaller breeds.

What Causes Bladder Cancer in Dogs?

While the exact cause of bladder cancer in dogs is not fully understood, several factors may increase a dog’s risk:

• Genetics: 
  Certain breeds are more prone to developing bladder cancer. These include Scottish Terriers, Shetland Sheepdogs, and Beagles.

• Age: 
  Bladder cancer is more common in older dogs, particularly those over the age of 10.

• Gender: 
  Female dogs, especially unspayed females, are at a higher risk due to hormonal influences.

• Environmental Factors: 
  Exposure to certain chemicals, such as pesticides, herbicides, and tobacco smoke, has been linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer in dogs.

Symptoms of Bladder Cancer in Dogs

The symptoms of bladder cancer in dogs can vary depending on the stage of the disease, the size of the tumor, and how much the cancer has spread. The early symptoms can be greatly similar to symptoms of urinary tract infections: Here are some key tips to differentiate them:

Bladder Cancer Symptoms vs. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Symptoms in Dogs:

• Bladder Cancer:
  Blood in urine (hematuria), painful urination, difficulty urinating, loss of appetite, weight loss, lethargy.
• UTI:
  Frequent urination, straining to urinate, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, mild blood in urine, licking the genital area.

Bladder cancer typically involves more severe, persistent symptoms like weight loss and lethargy, while UTIs are usually marked by more acute, localized urinary issues.

Common symptoms include:

1. Frequent Urination: Dogs may attempt to urinate more often but produce only small amounts of urine, often accompanied by signs of discomfort or straining.

2. Blood in Urine (Hematuria): One of the most common signs of bladder cancer in dogs is the presence of blood in the urine, which may appear bright red or darker in color.

3. Painful Urination: Bladder cancer can cause pain or discomfort when a dog urinates. This may cause the dog to appear restless or anxious, especially during bathroom breaks.

4. Incontinence: Dogs with bladder cancer may have difficulty controlling their bladder, leading to urine leakage or accidents inside the house.

5. Lethargy and Loss of Appetite: As the cancer progresses, the dog may become less active and lose interest in food, resulting in weight loss and fatigue.

6. Vomiting or Diarrhea: In some cases, the spread of cancer to other organs can lead to gastrointestinal upset.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to consult your veterinarian as soon as possible for a thorough evaluation.

How Common Is Bladder Cancer in Dogs?

Bladder cancer is relatively rare in dogs, accounting for around 2% of all cancers in dogs. However, it is the most common cancer of the urinary tract.

Certain breeds, such as the Scottish Terrier, Shetland Sheepdog, and Beagle, are more predisposed to developing bladder cancer.

How Aggressive Is Bladder Cancer in Dogs?

Bladder cancer in dogs can be quite aggressive, especially transitional cell carcinoma (TCC). The tumor tends to grow quickly and can invade nearby tissues, such as the bladder wall, lymph nodes, and surrounding organs. As the tumor progresses, it can spread to other parts of the body, leading to complications and worsening symptoms.

Bladder Cancer in Dogs: Stages

Bladder cancer in dogs progresses in stages, and treatment plans often depend on the stage of cancer. The stages are as follows:

1. Stage 1: The tumor is confined to the bladder and has not spread to other areas.
2. Stage 2: The cancer has spread into the muscle layers of the bladder wall.
3. Stage 3: The cancer has spread to nearby organs or lymph nodes.
4. Stage 4: The cancer has metastasized to distant organs, such as the lungs, liver, or bones.

Final Stages of Bladder Cancer Symptoms in Dogs

In the final stages of bladder cancer, the dog’s symptoms may worsen, and it can be heartbreaking for pet owners to witness. The cancer often metastasizes (spreads) to other parts of the body, making the situation even more complicated. Symptoms in the final stages include:

• Severe Pain: As the tumor grows and invades nearby structures, the dog may experience significant pain, especially when urinating or when the tumor presses on surrounding organs.

• Severe Hematuria: Blood in the urine becomes more frequent, and the dog may experience difficulty urinating altogether, leading to potential urinary retention or blockages.

• Complete Loss of Appetite: By this stage, the dog may refuse to eat or drink, which can lead to dehydration and malnutrition.

• Difficulty Breathing or Coughing: If the cancer has spread to the lungs or other organs, respiratory distress may develop, accompanied by coughing or difficulty breathing.

• Weight Loss and Weakness: The dog’s overall health deteriorates, and it may become weak or unable to stand or walk for long periods.

Bladder Cancer in Dogs: When to Euthanize

Deciding when to euthanize a dog suffering from bladder cancer can be one of the most difficult choices a pet owner faces. When considering euthanasia, factors to weigh include:

• Pain and Suffering: If your dog is in constant pain and has difficulty doing basic activities like eating, drinking, or going for walks, it may be a sign that their quality of life is significantly diminished.

• Loss of Control: If the dog can no longer control its bladder or experiences frequent accidents, it may affect their quality of life and lead to distress.

• Inability to Maintain Basic Health: If your dog is unable to eat or drink, leading to severe weight loss or dehydration, it may be time to consider euthanasia.

It is important to consult with your veterinarian, who can provide guidance based on the dog's condition and help you make the most humane decision.

Bladder Cancer in Dogs: Ultrasound

Ultrasound is an important diagnostic tool in identifying bladder cancer in dogs. It allows veterinarians to visualize the bladder and detect tumors, stones, or other abnormalities. Cystoscopy (a procedure where a small camera is inserted into the bladder) may also be used to obtain a tissue sample for biopsy, which is essential for confirming a cancer diagnosis.

Bladder Cancer in Dogs: Treatment

Bladder cancer in dogs is typically treated using a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiation. However, treatment options depend on the stage of the cancer, the location of the tumor, and the dog's overall health.

Surgery:

Surgical removal of the tumor is often the first treatment option, but it is not always possible, especially if the tumor has spread or is located in a part of the bladder that cannot be easily accessed. In some cases, the entire bladder may need to be removed.

Chemotherapy:

Chemotherapy is often used in combination with surgery, especially for cases where the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Drugs like Mitoxantrone and Carboplatin are commonly used in the treatment of bladder cancer in dogs. Chemotherapy helps slow the progression of the disease and can prolong life, but it may also come with side effects, such as nausea and lethargy.

Radiation Therapy:

Radiation therapy may be used to target specific tumor sites, especially if surgery is not an option. It is often employed to shrink tumors and relieve pain associated with bladder cancer.

Palliative Care:

In advanced stages, where a cure is not possible, palliative care may be recommended to improve the dog’s quality of life. This includes pain management and medications to control symptoms like urinary incontinence.

Bladder Cancer in Dogs: Survival Rate and Prognosis

The survival rate for dogs with bladder cancer largely depends on the stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis, the treatment options available, and the dog’s overall health. In general:

• Early Stages: If the cancer is caught early and treated with surgery and chemotherapy, some dogs can survive for one to two years or longer.

• Advanced Stages: In advanced stages, the prognosis is less optimistic, and survival times are often measured in months rather than years.

The prognosis of bladder cancer can vary significantly between individual dogs, and it is important to work closely with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action.

Conclusion

Bladder cancer in dogs is a serious condition that requires prompt attention from a veterinarian. While it can be challenging to manage,understanding the symptoms, stages, and available treatment options can help you make informed decisions about your pet's care. Early detection and intervention are key to improving your dog’s chances of survival and quality of life.