Frequently Asked Questions
About Chemotherapy

Can my pet eat before coming in for chemotherapy?
Will my pet's hair or whiskers fall out with chemotherapy?
Do I need to take precautions regarding myself, my family or other pets while my pet is on chemotherapy?
Will my pet get sick from chemotherapy?
How does chemotherapy work?
Can my pet stay on flea and heartworm treatment during chemotherapy?
Can my pet receive vaccines while on chemotherapy?

Can my pet eat before coming in for chemotherapy?

Unless informed otherwise, Yes! In fact, your pet will quickly learn where our cookie jars are located, as our favorite thing to do is to spoil our patients! If your pet is on a special diet, we would love for you to bring in his or her own treats for us to use. Occasionally certain testing is needed which requires fasting. Our team will inform you in advance if this is necessary.

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Will my pet's hair or whiskers fall out with chemotherapy?

The majority of veterinary patients do not lose their hair, except for the canine breeds that have hair (examples: poodles, terriers, sheepdogs), rather than fur. Many dogs and cats will lose their whiskers and guard hairs. These will re-grow during or after treatment is done.

Shaved areas will grow back slowly. The hair loss tends to be worse following treatment with Adriamycin (doxorubicin). The hair will re-grow once the treatments have finished. Occasionally the hair will grow back a different texture or color. This is a cosmetic side effect only and does not negatively impact the quality of your pet's life.

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Do I need to take precautions regarding myself, my family or other pets while my pet is on chemotherapy?

For orally administered chemotherapy drugs, it is important that the capsules or pills are kept out of the reach of children. If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or nursing, try to arrange for someone else to administer oral chemotherapy drugs. Most oral drugs have a protective coating, but we recommend that latex or polyvinyl gloves be worn when handling these medications. It is very important not to cut the pills into pieces or open the capsules, as this can increase the risk of exposure. Always wash your hands after handling chemotherapy drugs.

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Will my pet get sick from chemotherapy?

The goal at VCRC is to provide the best quality of life possible for as long as possible. The drug dosages used in veterinary medicine do not cause side effects in the majority of pets. Despite this, there is a slight risk of side effects and a small percentage of animals may become ill after chemotherapy. Most side effects occur during the first few days of therapy, although they can occur at any time during treatment. If your pet does have side effects, please let us know. Your feedback helps Dr. Freeman to modify the drug type or dosage, to minimize the chance of recurring side effects. Signs of illness can range from a slight decrease in energy and appetite to lethargy, anorexia, diarrhea and vomiting. Typically, over-the-counter medications are all that are needed should side effects occur.

Pets do not typically experience nausea and are usually subject to milder side effects than their human counterparts.

Emotionally and mentally, pets are not consciously aware that they have cancer. They continue to benefit from continued positive interactions with their family and animal friends.

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How does chemotherapy work?

Chemotherapy attacks fast growing cells in the body, which include cancer cells, bone marrow cells, and the cells that line the intestinal tract. Thus side effects of chemotherapy can be suppression of bone marrow cell (blood cell) production and intestinal upset. Blood cell suppression may increase the risk for infection and cause lethargy. Intestinal upset may include weight loss, appetite loss, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Maintaining good quality of life remains a focus even while they are on chemotherapy.

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Can my pet stay on flea and heartworm treatment during chemotherapy?

Yes, there is no reason to discontinue these medications. No harmful interactions have been reported.

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Can my pet receive vaccines while on chemotherapy?

This is not advised while pets are on chemotherapy. Since your pet's immune system is suppressed by chemotherapy, vaccines are unlikely to be very effective. It is unknown whether the vaccine will provide the normal beneficial response for your pet. It is best to wait at least 6 to 8 weeks following the completion of any chemotherapy treatments before vaccines are given. Please contact us before vaccines are given, if you have any questions.

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