Mary Allen
Introduction: Chemotherapy in dogs
Chemotherapy is a common treatment for cancer in dogs, and it involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. While chemotherapy can be effective in treating cancer in dogs, it can also cause a range of adverse effects. These effects can be temporary or permanent, and they can vary depending on the type of drug used and the dog’s individual response to treatment.
Common side effects of chemotherapy
The most common side effects of chemotherapy in dogs include gastrointestinal effects, hematopoietic effects, dermatological effects, neurological effects, cardiopulmonary effects, renal and hepatic effects, reproductive effects, ocular effects, and immune system effects. These side effects can range from mild to severe, and they can impact the dog’s quality of life.
Gastrointestinal effects of chemotherapy
Gastrointestinal effects are among the most common adverse effects of chemotherapy in dogs. These effects can include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and nausea. These symptoms can be caused by the drugs used in chemotherapy, which can irritate the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. These symptoms can usually be managed with medication and changes to the dog’s diet. In some cases, the veterinarian may need to adjust the dosage or schedule of chemotherapy to reduce these effects.