Chemotherapy

Since chemotherapy can affect all dividing cells in the body, healthy cells with high growth rates, such as hair follicles, can also be affected. Most animals do not experience significant hair loss, but you may find that shaved areas will grow back slowly.  

Cats may lose their whiskers and guard hairs. Dogs that typically require regular grooming, such as poodles and terriers, are likely to have mild to moderate hair loss.  

Any hair lost during chemotherapy will re-grow once treatments have finished. Occasionally hair will grow back a different texture or color, but this is just a cosmetic side effect and does not negatively affect the quality of your pet's life.  

With the drug dosages used in veterinary medicine, most pets experience minimal to no side effects. Despite this, there is a slight risk of side effects, and a small percentage of animals may become ill after chemotherapy. Most side effects occur during the first 2-3 days after treatment but could occur the day of treatment until 10-14 days later.  

If your pet does experience side effects, over-the-counter medications are typically sufficient at helping curb the symptoms. It is still important to discuss any adverse effects with your oncology team as they can modify the drug type or dosage to help reduce chances of these side effects returning. They may also recommend additional remedies for relief, including medications or even acupuncture

While only seen in a small percentage of pets undergoing chemotherapy, potential side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, fever, bloody urine, and hair loss. 

Keep note of any and all adverse effects you notice during your pet’s course of treatment and discuss with your oncology team. 

For orally administered chemotherapy drugs, it is important that the capsules or pills are kept out of the reach of children. If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or nursing, try to arrange for someone else to administer them.  

Most oral drugs have a protective coating, but we recommend that latex or polyvinyl gloves be worn when handling these medications. It is very important not to cut the pills into pieces or open the capsules, as this can increase the risk of exposure. 

Yes, many of our patients remain on their monthly flea and tick preventatives while on chemotherapy. There have been no reports of interactions when using these products while receiving chemotherapy. We recommend that you still consult your primary care veterinarian for their product recommendations.