Osteosarcoma is a rare but devastating bone cancer in cats, with distinct biological behaviour from the canine version and welfare management centred on pain control.
Osteosarcoma causes intense, progressive bone pain that substantially reduces quality of life through all activities including movement, rest and veterinary examination. Pain assessment using validated feline pain scales enables appropriate analgesic titration. Amputation provides the most reliable pain relief and, in cats, most owners report that quality of life post-amputation is better than expected. Palliative radiation therapy can provide pain relief for non-resectable tumours. Regular welfare assessment is essential as disease progresses.