Pet Chemotherapy in Middlesbrough

What chemotherapy is

Chemotherapy uses medicines to slow or stop the growth and division of cancer cells. In pets, the aim is usually to control the cancer and give your pet a good quality of life for as long as possible, rather than a cure. It is most commonly used in dogs and cats, and can be given by injection or as tablets, depending on the medicine and your pet.

Chemotherapy can be used as the main treatment for some cancers, such as lymphoma, or alongside surgery for others, for example after removing a tumour. It may also be considered for other conditions such as some immune-mediated diseases. Your vet will explain whether chemotherapy is likely to help your pet, and whether treatment here or a referral is most appropriate.

Starting the conversation

Cancer care usually begins with a vet consultation and appropriate diagnostic tests and imaging to understand what type of cancer your pet has and whether it has spread. Some lumps can be removed with pet surgery; others may need further treatment.

We know a cancer diagnosis is frightening. Your vet will talk you through the options honestly, including what treatment involves, the likely outcome, side effects, cost and what it would mean for your pet's daily life, so you can make the decision that is right for you and your pet.

During treatment

Pets generally cope with chemotherapy better than people do, as the doses used aim to keep side effects mild. Some pets may have a reduced appetite, mild sickness or diarrhoea, or be a little tired for a short time after treatment. Your vet will explain what to watch for and when to call us, and will arrange regular checks and blood tests to monitor how your pet is doing.

Chemotherapy medicines need careful handling. We will explain any precautions to take at home, such as how to handle tablets and your pet's waste.

Your pet's comfort comes first

Throughout treatment, your pet's comfort and quality of life are what matter most. If treatment is no longer helping, or side effects outweigh the benefits, we will talk honestly with you about the options, which may include supportive care and, when the time comes, end-of-life care.

Questions to ask your vet

It can help to write down your questions before your appointment, as it is easy to forget things when you are worried. Useful questions include: what type of cancer does my pet have, and has it spread; what are the treatment options, including not treating; what would chemotherapy involve, how often and for how long; what side effects should I watch for, and what do I do if they happen; how will we know if treatment is working; and what would treatment cost, and does my insurance cover it. There are no wrong questions, and your vet will take the time to go through them with you.