Mast cell tumours are the most common malignant skin tumour in dogs, with welfare implications that span from diagnosis through treatment and palliative care.
Dogs with mast cell tumours may experience local irritation, swelling, and systemic effects from histamine release in high-grade tumours. Degranulation during handling or surgical manipulation causes systemic histamine release requiring premedication. Surgical treatment of high-grade tumours may require extensive tissue removal affecting body image and function depending on location. Chemotherapy for metastatic disease causes gastrointestinal side effects including vomiting and reduced appetite. Quality of life assessment during treatment weighs the discomfort of treatment against disease progression. Palliative care focusing on comfort and quality of life is appropriate when curative treatment is not possible or declined. Regular skin examination in predisposed breeds enables early detection and more conservative treatment.