Mast cell tumours are the most common malignant skin tumour in dogs. Their variable behaviour - from benign to highly aggressive - makes welfare-focused decision-making and quality of life assessment crucial for affected dogs and their owners.
Mast cell tumours create significant welfare challenges. Histamine release from tumour manipulation causes painful local reactions, and systemic degranulation can cause anaphylaxis-like episodes. Chemotherapy and targeted therapy, while often well-tolerated, can cause gastrointestinal side effects. High-grade disease may progress rapidly, causing pain and functional impairment. Owners frequently struggle with the emotional weight of decision-making, and the unpredictable nature of mast cell tumours - some appearing benign for years then suddenly progressing - makes ongoing monitoring essential. Good palliative care, including pain management and anti-histamine therapy, can maintain quality of life even when cure is not possible.