Oral tumours

Tumours associated with the oral cavity and pharynx account for 6% of all tumours in dogs and 3% of all tumours in cats, and tumour types and their associated behaviour differs between these two species (Findji, 2015); the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) global veterinary dentistry guidelines estimated that oral tumours account for 7% of all tumours in dogs and 10% in cats (Niemiec et al, 2017). In literature the incidence differs between authors, but the consensus seems to be between 3 and 10% of all dogs and cat tumours are orally-related. Dental, maxillofacial and oropharyngeal tumours often require a multimodal approach to their treatment, involving one or more of surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy (Findji, 2015). It is important that veterinary professionals are aware of these different types of tumours their canine and feline patients may develop, including details regarding their behaviour and potential treatments, in order to educate clients and provide them with accurate information on which to make an informed decision about their pet's future. They know their pets best and ultimately are their advocates, so the extensive knowledge they have about their pet and its abilities, tolerances and idiosyncrasies needs to be combined with the clinical knowledge from the veterinary professional to decipher what is going to be the best course of action for that individual animal; with a focus on quality of life not longevity. Earlier detection and diagnosis of oral tumours provides the greatest chance for optimal recovery.