Our Specialist in Oncology, Dr. Antonio Giuliano, shares that brain tumours in animals are rare but extremely serious, especially in older dogs and cats. The most common types are meningiomas (which arise from the brain’s covering) and gliomas (which arise from brain support cells). Boxers and Bulldogs are more prone to gliomas, while cats most commonly develop meningiomas.
🧪Diagnosis is made using MRI scans, and treatment depends on the tumour type and location. Surgery is often used for cats with meningiomas, while radiotherapy is the first choice for dogs with either gliomas or meningiomas.
👉Case Sharing:
Dr. Antonio recently treated a 13-year-old Chihuahua named Gabie for brain cancer. After thorough discussions with her family, they decided to proceed with Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT). Before treatment, Gabie was blind in one eye and walked unsteadily. However, following the therapy, her condition improved, she regained mobility and ran around happily. Gabie ’s case clearly demonstrates the significant improvements that radiation therapy can bring. However, every animal’s condition is different, and the prognosis depends on the type of tumor and the chosen treatment approach.
⏳Prognosis: Dogs treated with radiotherapy may live 12–18 months or longer.
️⚠️ Watch for signs like:
– Seizures
– Behaviour changes (e.g. staring at walls, confusion, forgetting toilet habits)
– Head pressing
– Changes in sleeping patterns
– Pacing
– Difficulty walking
– Walking in circles
– Falling over
– Head tilt
💡 Notice any of these signs? Contact your vet early, as timely diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve your animal’s quality of life.
