Canine Transmissible Venereal Tumor (TVT) - Symptoms and Treatment

Author: John Stephens
Date Of Creation: 24 January 2021
Update Date: 14 November 2024
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Canine Transmissible Venereal Tumor
Video: Canine Transmissible Venereal Tumor

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Canine transmissible venereal tumor can affect both males and females, although a higher incidence is observed among individuals who exhibit sexual activity. Therefore, before explaining the symptoms of this disease and its treatment, we must consider the importance of sterilization or castration to avoid many infections and periodic veterinary checks, in order to detect any tumor early.

In this Animal Expert article, we'll explain the canine transmissible venereal tumor (TVT), its symptoms and treatment. Remember, veterinary attention in this pathology is essential!

What is canine TVT?

TVT means transmissible venereal tumor in dogs. It is a cancer that appears in dogs, in the genital of both sexes: male and female, although it is also possible to find in other parts of the body, such as the perineum, face, mouth, tongue, eyes, nose or legs. Fortunately, it's a neoplasm less common. The veterinarian will be able to establish the proper differential diagnosis.


The most common form of transmission is by via sex, therefore, this tumor appears more frequently in unneutered dogs that mate without any control or in animals that are abandoned.

canine TVT: broadcast

The small lesions, which occur on the mucous membrane of the penis and vagina during intercourse, serve as an entry point for tumor cells.At the TVT canine broadcast can also occur through licks, scratches or bites. It is considered a low-intensity cancer, although it can occur metastases in some cases.

These tumors can be kept in the incubation period for up to several months after infection before the mass is observed as it grows, it may spread to the scrotum and anus or even organs such as the liver or spleen. Cases of the disease have been found all over the world, being more present in warm or temperate climates.


There are some alternative therapies for dogs with cancer, however, before starting any treatment we recommend a visit to a trusted veterinarian.

Canine TVT: symptoms

We may suspect the presence of a transmissible canine tumor if we find inflammation or lesions in the penis, vagina or vulva. They can be seen as cauliflower-shaped lumps or stem-like nodules that may ulcerate and present with solitary or multiple tumors.

Symptoms such as bleeding not associated with urination, although the caregiver may confuse it with hematuria, that is, the appearance of blood in the urine. Of course, if the canine TVT can obstruct the urethra, it will be difficult to urinate. In females, bleeding can be confused with the heat period, so if you notice that it extends, it is advisable to contact your veterinarian.


canine TVT: diagnosis

Once again, it will be the professional who will reveal the diagnosis, as it is necessary to differentiate this clinical picture from, for example, a possible urine infection or a prostate growth, in the case of males. The canine TVT is diagnosed by cytology, therefore, a sample must be taken.

Canine Transmissible Venereal Tumor Treatment

when thinking about how to cure canine TVT and, luckily, the canine transmissible venereal tumor, as mentioned before, is considered a low-intensity cancer, so it responds well to treatment. It usually consists of chemotherapy or, in some cases, radiotherapy. These treatments can last between 3 and 6 weeks. In the case of radiotherapy, only one session may be needed. Healing is achieved in almost all cases.

You should be aware that there are some side effects of chemotherapy, such as vomiting or bone marrow depression, which is why it is important to do it. control exams. Surgery in these cases is less recommended because it is associated with recurrence phenomena.

Dog sterilization is included in prevention practices, as all animals that roam freely are the risk group, presenting more opportunities for infection. Dogs that live in shelters, shelters, protective associations, kennels or incubators are also more exposed because these places gather a large number of dogs, which increases the probability of contact, with the additional risk of not being spayed.

This article is for information purposes only, at PeritoAnimal.com.br we are not able to prescribe veterinary treatments or perform any type of diagnosis. We suggest that you take your pet to the veterinarian in case it has any type of condition or discomfort.