Veterinary Oncologist Specialists MARS veterinary oncologist team provides targeted cancer therapy to support pets and their owners navigate the treatment procedures available to them.

Veterinary oncologist treating patients with targeted cancer therapy

This form of targeted cancer therapy offered by the MARS veterinary oncologist team, works by targeting specific molecules or pathways that cancer cells rely on to grow and multiply. These are often proteins that are overproduced or mutated in cancer cells, and by disrupting them, these therapies can effectively slow or stop tumour growth, while leaving healthy cells largely untouched.

Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which affects both healthy and cancerous cells, targeted therapies are more selective in their action. This precision not only enhances effectiveness but also helps reduce side effects, making it a valuable option in modern vet cancer care treatment.

What is the approved targeted cancer therapy for a veterinary oncologist to use on patients?

Currently, two targeted therapies have been approved specifically for veterinary oncologist use: Palladia and Masivet.

Originally developed for treating mast cell tumours, Palladia has also shown effectiveness against a variety of other cancers, including anal sac adenocarcinoma in dogs and cats, thyroid carcinoma, head and neck cancers, heart base tumours, metastatic osteosarcoma in cats or dogs, insulinoma, and gastrointestinal stromal tumours. It works by targeting several growth factor receptors present on tumour cells.

While these newer therapies may not yet be fully studied in veterinary patients, they offer exciting potential, especially in cases where traditional treatments have been exhausted. In these instances, targeted therapy may be considered as part of a personalised, innovative vet cancer care treatment plan—one that balances cutting-edge science with compassionate care.