Bladder Matters: Navigating Canine Urogenital Cancer

When a dog presents with blood in the urine, straining to urinate, increased urinary frequency, or recurrent urinary accidents, a urinary tract infection is often one of the first considerations. But when those signs persist or repeatedly return, veterinarians may need to look beyond infection. 

These clinical signs can also indicate transitional cell carcinoma (TCC), the most common form of bladder cancer in dogs. 

In her RACE-approved continuing education lecture, “Bladder Matters: Navigating Canine Urogenital Cancer,” Lillie Davis, DVM, DACVIM (Oncology), explores the recognition, diagnosis, treatment, and management of canine bladder and urogenital cancers, providing practical insights veterinarians can apply in general practice, emergency medicine, and specialty care. 

 

When Urinary Signs Signal Something More 

Bladder cancer is relatively uncommon in dogs, but when it does occur, TCC is the most frequently diagnosed type. 

One of the challenges with TCC is that its early clinical presentation can closely resemble more common lower urinary tract conditions. 

Dogs may present with: 
 

• Hematuria 
• Stranguria 
• Increased urinary frequency 
• Urinary accidents 
• Recurrent or persistent urinary tract infections 

When urinary signs fail to resolve as expected—or continue to return—keeping bladder cancer on the differential list can help lead to earlier investigation and diagnosis. 

 

Recognizing Patients at Increased Risk 

Not every patient carries the same risk for developing bladder cancer. 

Understanding the epidemiology and known risk factors associated with canine TCC can help veterinary teams identify patients who may warrant additional diagnostic evaluation, particularly when urinary symptoms persist despite appropriate treatment. 

For referring veterinarians, recognizing these patterns and knowing when to recommend further diagnostics or referral to a veterinary oncologist can help patients and their families receive answers sooner. 

 

Advances in Diagnostic Testing 

The diagnostic approach to canine TCC has evolved significantly with advances in molecular testing. 

Dr. Davis reviews the CADET® BRAF and BRAF-PLUS molecular tests, including their clinical applications, strengths, and limitations. She also compares these newer diagnostic tools with more traditional testing methods, including the BTA test. 

Understanding which diagnostic test is appropriate—and when to use it—can help clinicians make more informed decisions while providing pet owners with clearer answers about their pet's condition. 
 

Expanding Treatment Options 

While canine bladder cancer remains a challenging disease, treatment options continue to evolve. Depending on the individual patient, treatment may help slow disease progression, manage clinical signs, and preserve quality of life. 

Current treatment strategies may include: 
 

• Medical management 
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) 
• Chemotherapy 
• Radiation therapy 
• Surgical intervention when appropriate 

There is no single treatment approach that is right for every patient. Tumor location, disease stage, concurrent conditions, overall health, and the family's goals all play an important role in developing an individualized treatment plan. 

 

Quality of Life Remains the Priority 

For many patients with bladder cancer, maintaining comfort and preserving quality of life are central goals throughout treatment. 

Palliative care can play an important role in managing discomfort, maintaining urinary function, and helping families navigate difficult decisions with realistic expectations and compassionate guidance. 

Treatment success isn't defined by disease control alone. Helping a pet continue to enjoy a comfortable and meaningful quality of life remains an essential part of oncology care. 

 

Early Recognition Can Make a Difference 

Because the initial signs of TCC can look remarkably similar to common urinary disease, awareness is critical. 

By recognizing persistent clinical signs, identifying higher-risk patients, utilizing appropriate diagnostic tools, and developing individualized treatment plans, veterinary teams can help improve outcomes and support an excellent quality of life for as long as possible. 

“Bladder Matters: Navigating Canine Urogenital Cancer” is a one-hour RACE-approved continuing education program presented by Lillie Davis, DVM, DACVIM (Oncology), offering practical information veterinarians can incorporate into the recognition and management of canine urogenital cancers. 

 

Refer a Patient to PASE Oncology

The Philadelphia Animal Specialty & Emergency (PASE) Oncology Department is available for appointments Tuesday through Friday each week. 

Our oncology team works alongside referring veterinarians to provide advanced diagnostics, individualized treatment options, and compassionate support for pets and the families who love them. 

Philadelphia Animal Specialty & Emergency (PASE) 
2100 Washington Ave. 
Philadelphia, PA 19146 
267-727-3738