Electrochemotherapy Oncology for Cats & Dogs

What If Tumour Treatment Could Be This Targeted?

Electrochemotherapy (ECT) is an advanced feline or canine cancer treatment option that enhances the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs by using electrical pulses increasing drug uptake into cancer cells. This approach allows for a highly targeted tumour destruction while minimising the impact on surrounding healthy tissues.

ECT has become an invaluable tool for treating a variety of cancers in veterinary medicine, particularly cutaneous (skin) and subcutaneous (under the skin) tumours. It is especially beneficial for cases where surgical removal is challenging due to tumour location, incomplete excisions, or concerns about preserving function and cosmetic appearance.

Key Applications of ECT

• Scar Treatment After Incomplete Tumour Excision – ECT is highly effective in cases where a tumour has been surgically removed, but microscopic cancer cells may remain. By applying ECT to the surgical site, we can reduce the risk of local recurrence. 
• Feline Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) – SCC is a common and aggressive skin cancer in cats, often affecting the nose, ears, or eyelids. ECT provides a minimally invasive alternative to surgery, helping to preserve critical facial structures while effectively managing the disease. 
• Other Skin and Subcutaneous Tumours – ECT has shown success in treating mast cell tumours, soft tissue sarcomas, perianal tumours in dogs and cats, and small metastatic lesions where surgery may be difficult or undesirable.

How Electrochemotherapy Works

ECT involves the administration of a chemotherapy drug—typically bleomycin at MARS — injected intravenously. A few minutes afterward, short electrical pulses are applied to the treatment area, temporarily opening the cancer cell membranes. This dramatically increases the uptake of bleomycin, enhancing its tumour-killing effect while reducing systemic side effects.

If you are a referring veterinarian, we welcome discussions on case suitability and treatment planning. If you are a pet owner, speak with your vet to determine if ECT may be an appropriate option for your pet’s condition. Our oncology team is available to provide guidance and collaborate on a tailored treatment plan.

By integrating ECT into veterinary oncology, we continue to expand the possibilities for treating cancer in pets—helping them live longer, more comfortable lives. Contact our team today to find out more about the procedure or cost of chemo for dogs or cats.