Cancer in horses presents unique welfare and ethical challenges. Understanding the most common cancers, treatment options and quality of life assessment helps owners and vets make welfare-centred decisions.
Cancer in horses presents welfare challenges that are shaped by the horses' size, the cost of treatment and the often progressive nature of the diseases involved. Unlike companion animals where oncology has become highly specialised, equine cancer treatment is more limited in scope. The welfare-centred approach asks at each stage whether treatment is improving the horse's quality of life or simply extending a period of suffering. Sarcoids that interfere with tack or cause chronic pain warrant treatment not just for aesthetics; melanomas in grey horses need monitoring because rapid growth can compromise welfare quickly. Open, honest communication between owner and vet about welfare thresholds is essential.