6 Things To Ask Your Vet About Early Cancer Detection in Your Pet

Cats and dogs are experts at hiding their symptoms when they are sick. This is an instinct that is a normal survival behavior, but it also makes us more likely to miss symptoms of serious diseases, like cancer, in their earliest stages.  

Hearing that your dog or cat has cancer is devastating—and unfortunately, cancer is a common diagnosis in veterinary medicine. The encouraging news is that early detection can positively impact your pet’s treatment options and quality of life.  

You don’t need to be a veterinarian to know what to look out for when it comes to signs or symptoms of cancer. You simply need to be watchful and work closely with your veterinary team to monitor your pet’s health. 

What Is Early Cancer Detection in Pets?

Early cancer detection, sometimes called a cancer screening for your pet, is about identifying potential problems before they become more noticeable in your pet’s daily life.  

The goal of early pet cancer detection is to identify cellular changes (through blood tests) or small tumors, lumps, and bumps (via hands-on physical exams or imaging) before there are symptoms or illness related to cancer diagnosis. 

Veterinarians use several tools to screen for cancer, including: 

• Physical exams: A thorough nose-to-tail exam where your veterinarian checks for hidden lumps, swelling, pain, or other abnormal changes. 

• Blood work: Blood tests assess internal organ function and may reveal abnormalities that aren’t visible externally. 

• Imaging: Diagnostics such as X-rays and ultrasounds allow your veterinarian to evaluate internal structures and organs.

• Sampling: If a lump is found, your veterinarian may perform a fine needle aspirate to remove cells from the mass for evaluation, or they may want to perform a biopsy to determine whether it’s cancerous. 

• New blood tests: Emerging “liquid biopsy” tests, such as the Nu.Q Vet Cancer Test, can detect markers of certain cancers in the bloodstream before a tumor is detectable.

Is My Pet at a Higher Risk for Cancer?

Some pets are more likely to develop cancer than others due to genetics or age-related conditions. Understanding your pet’s individual risk can help guide best practices for monitoring and how often screening is recommended. 

Factors that may increase the risk for cancer include: 

• Age: Cancer risk increases with age. Many veterinarians recommend frequent screening once pets enter their senior years, often around age 7.  

• Breed: Certain breeds, such as Golden Retrievers, are known to have a higher cancer risk due to genetics and the use of poor gene pools during breeding. 

• Health history: Chronic inflammation, obesity, and other conditions may increase the risk of cancer. In cats, FeLV or FIV infection raises the risk for certain cancers. 

• Environment: Exposure to secondhand smoke and some household or lawn chemicals may also be a contributing factor. 

6 Things To Ask Your Veterinarian About Early Cancer Detection

1. How Often Should My Pet Have Wellness Exams? 

This depends on your pet’s age and overall health. Many healthy adult pets only need annual health exams, while seniors often benefit from checkups every six months. 

2. What Cancer Screening Tests Are Recommend for My Pet Right Now? 

If your veterinarian finds abnormalities during a physical exam, they’ll recommend appropriate follow-up testing.  

For healthy pets with normal physical exams, ask if newer blood tests that can detect cancer before physical signs appear might be appropriate for your pet. 

3. What Subtle Symptoms Should I Watch for at Home? 

Cancer often begins with small, gradual changes. Ask your veterinary team about warning signs such as: 

• Unexplained weight loss 

• A spine that looks or feels more prominent (muscle loss) 

• Decreased appetite or changes in eating habits 

• New or worsening bad breath 

• Sores that do not heal 

• Coughing or subtle changes in breathing 

4. If Your Veterinarian Finds a Mass or Abnormal Result, What Happens Next? 

Not every mass is cancerous. Many, such as fatty growths called lipomas, are benign. Ask your veterinarian, “What is your level of concern” and “What are the best next steps to address the concern?”  

Your veterinarian can explain when it’s appropriate to watch, when to sample, and what best practices are for detection and treatment. 

5. How Do My Pet’s Age, Breed, and History Change Their Screening Plan? 

Because every pet is unique, ask how your pet’s individual history influences screening recommendations. This helps ensure your pet receives care tailored specifically to their needs. 

6. What Can I Do at Home To Help With Early Detection? 

Ask your veterinary team to show you how to perform a simple, gentle, nose-to-tail exam at home and how often to do it. Make your pet comfortable—using a familiar pet bed—and always reward them with a treat afterward. 

Keep a simple log of these checks, including body weight, muscle condition, energy level, appetite consistency, and any new lumps or changes. This information can be extremely helpful at your next veterinary visit. 

Supporting Your Pet—and Yourself

Learning that your pet might have cancer is frightening, and it’s OK to feel overwhelmed. The purpose of early detection is to create more options and give you more time to make informed decisions.  

If your pet does have cancer, talk openly with your veterinary team about quality of life, next steps, and available support. Ultimately, early cancer screening is one of the most powerful tools you have for peace of mind—and for protecting your pet’s well-being. You are your pet’s best advocate, and your veterinary team is there to support both of you.