Brain And Nervous System Cancers In Dogs And Cats

Brain and nervous system tumours are less common than other cancers, but are among the most challenging in veterinary medicine. In dogs, the most frequent primary brain tumours are meningiomas, gliomas (astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma), and choroid plexus tumours.

Meningiomas are the most common cancer in cats, often presenting later in life. Secondary tumours such as lymphoma or metastatic disease can also affect the central nervous system.

Due to the location, these tumours can cause significant neurological signs even when relatively small. Early detection and accurate assessment are essential for determining whether surgical removal, radiation therapy, or palliative care is the most appropriate approach. PET-CT has become an invaluable tool for differentiating viable tumour tissue from surrounding normal brain and guiding advanced therapies.

Neurological tumours in dogs and cats can cause a variety of signs, depending on their size and location:

• Seizures (common first sign in dogs).
• Changes in behaviour or personality.
• Circling, head tilt, or loss of balance.
• Blindness or vision changes.
• Weakness, incoordination, or paralysis.

Diagnosis begins with a neurological exam and advanced imaging, typically MRI, which provides excellent anatomical detail. However, MRI and CT alone cannot always differentiate between a tumour, inflammation, or post-treatment changes. This is where PET-CT adds unique value by showing metabolic activity within the brain.

• PET-CT scans benefit brain and nervous system tumours by revealing biological activity rather than just structure. This allows vets to see where a tumour is located and how aggressive it may be.
• Helps avoid misdiagnosis in pets with chronic neurological disease.
• Identifies a lesion’s most metabolically active region, ensuring accurate tissue sampling and surgical targeting.
• Defines biologically active tumour margins for precise dose delivery, protecting surrounding healthy brain tissue.
• Detects changes in tumour metabolism earlier than size changes on MRI, allowing timely adjustments to therapy.
• Distinguishes between recurrent tumour and radiation necrosis in previously treated patients.

Brain and nervous system cancers present some of the most significant challenges in veterinary oncology, both medically and emotionally. Pet owners are devastated by neurological changes in their pets and need clear, compassionate guidance. PET Theranostics provides the highest diagnostic clarity available, helping to distinguish tumours from other brain diseases, plan therapies, and track treatment effectiveness. Pet owners should speak to their vet today about a referral to Pet Theranostics.