Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy refers to the administration of cytotoxic drugs (drugs that harm or kill cells). Chemotherapy is commonly used in veterinary practice to treat certain types of cancer, either as a primary treatment or after surgery. Occasionally chemotherapy may be used for other medical conditions, such as those involving the immune system. 

Veterinary chemotherapy uses lower doses of each drug than commonly given to humans, so we rarely see the drastic side effects seen in human chemotherapy use. Doses are calculated specifically to each patient’s size and may be adjusted if they do not tolerate them well. 

How is chemotherapy given? 

Chemotherapy is administered as several treatments. The exact regime is tailored to each patient, but typically requires a treatment every 2-4 weeks. For injectable chemotherapy to be given, your pet will be admitted to the practice for the day. Blood tests are often required on the same day, or a few days before each treatment. 

Pets receiving chemotherapy require some changes to their care to minimise any risk to people. Giving the chemotherapy itself is generally a relatively quick process, but often specific members of staff will perform the treatment due to the potential human risk. Chemotherapy is only ever administered in a quiet, designated area of the practice. Everybody involved will wear full PPE (personal protective equipment) and dispose of any waste carefully. Patients may be kept in the clinic for a few hours after treatment to monitor for side effects or give intravenous fluids. It is important that the process is performed correctly, so pets who are very stressed or uncooperative in the vets may require sedation. 

Learn more about chemotherapy in pets

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