Neoplasms are common in dogs and cats and it has been estimated that 50% of dogs and cats aged over 10 years die of neoplasia. The demand for treatment of pets with cancer is increasing and seems likely to do so for the foreseeable future as more animals become insured and their treatment costs are covered.

The purpose of this book is to provide a basic clinical approach to the diagnosis and treatment of the more common tumours in dogs and cats for the practising veterinary surgeon, undergraduate student and veterinary nurse. It is not intended to be a comprehensive reference book, covering all aspects of veterinary oncology, since several such texts exist. Rather it seeks to provide a core of basic, easily accessible and clinically relevant information on general aspects of veterinary oncology.

The first three chapters present general background information on pathogenesis, tumour biology, managing the cancer patient and the most frequently used methods of treatment. Practical details of chemotherapy and guidance on safety are given, as well as coverage of radiotherapy. The remaining chapters then provide specific information on the epidemiology, aetiology, pathology, presentation, staging, management and prognosis for tumours occurring in the different body systems.