The most common type of malignant bladder tumors in dogs is transitional cell carcinomas (TCC), which usually affects the neck of the bladder in the area called the trigone. Since both ureters from the kidneys empty urine into the bladder in the trigone area, a tumor in this region is inoperable. At times, tumors may also arise in the upper part of the bladder. These tumors are usually more easily removed surgically.
Because bladder cancer in dogs is usually diagnosed at late stages, it has a rather poor prognosis. By the time it is diagnosed, the cancer will have metastasized (spread) to other locations, such as regional lymph nodes, the pelvis, and the lumbar vertebrae.
Survival time ranges from a few weeks to over one year upon diagnosis, depending on factors such as the size and location of the tumor, and whether it has spread to other locations.
If left untreated, bladder cancer can lead to complications from urinary tract obstruction (e.g. unable to urinate) within 3-6 months.
Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment of Bladder Cancer in Dogs
Signs of Bladder Cancer in Dogs
- blood in the urine;
- difficult or painful urination;
- urinary incontinence;
- increased frequency of urination but with passage of only small amounts of urine;
- recurrent infections of the urinary tract.
As you can see, these signs are similar to other diseases such as urinary tract infections and bladder stones. As a result, mis-diagnosis can occur and it may be months before bladder cancer is properly diagnosed. Therefore, it is important to request additional tests if your dog is showing any of the above signs and does not seem to be recovering even with treatment.
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