Surgery
Cancer Surgery in Cedar Springs, MI
Finding a lump on your pet or hearing the word cancer is hard. At Cedar Animal Hospital, we take time to explain what we know, what we still need to learn, and what your options are. Families from Cedar Springs and all over West Michigan trust us for honest guidance and careful surgical care.
Understanding Cancer Surgery
Many lumps on pets are harmless, but some are not, and you cannot tell the difference just by looking or feeling. Cancer surgery means removing a tumor, along with a margin of healthy tissue around it when possible, to help remove the abnormal cells. It can be used to remove skin and fatty masses, tumors in the mouth or on the limbs, and growths on internal organs such as the spleen.
Planning starts with diagnosis. A small needle sample, examined under the microscope, can often tell us what kind of cells a lump contains, and Dr. Judy Nauta focuses part of her continuing education on cytology. Bloodwork, radiographs, ultrasound, and our in-house CT scan help us check whether a tumor has spread and plan the surgery. Dr. Samantha Littleson focuses her continuing education on soft tissue surgery, and removed tissue can be sent to a laboratory so we know exactly what we are treating.
What to Expect During Cancer Surgery
Every pet and every tumor is different, but most cancer surgeries at Cedar Animal Hospital follow these steps.
1. Evaluation and Sampling
Your veterinarian examines the lump, measures it, and often takes a quick needle sample. This helps us decide whether surgery is needed and how wide the removal should be.
2. Staging and Planning
Imaging and bloodwork show whether the tumor has spread and whether your pet is a good candidate for anesthesia. We then talk with you about the goals of surgery, the expected recovery, and an estimate.
3. Surgery
Your pet receives anesthesia and pain control, and the tumor is removed in one of our surgical suites. Removed tissue is usually sent for a biopsy report that describes the type of tumor and whether the edges are clear.
4. Recovery and Results
Pets who need close care can stay in our in-house ICU with 24/7 nursing care. When the biopsy report comes back, we go over the results with you and talk about any next steps, including monitoring or further treatment.
Why Early Cancer Surgery Matters
When it comes to tumors, timing often matters. Smaller masses are usually easier to remove completely.
Better Chance of Complete Removal
A small tumor can often be removed with clean margins. Waiting allows some tumors to grow deeper into nearby tissue.
Clear Answers
A biopsy report tells you what the mass was. That knowledge helps you and your veterinarian make informed choices about your pet’s future care.
Comfort and Quality of Life
Even when a cure is not possible, removing a painful, bleeding, or bothersome mass can make your pet more comfortable.
Signs to Watch For
Check your pet regularly while petting or grooming them, and call us if you notice:
- A new lump, or a lump that grows or changes shape
- A sore that does not heal
- Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
- Bleeding or discharge from the mouth, nose, or another area
- Swelling of the belly, weakness, or pale gums
Sudden weakness, pale gums, or a swollen belly can mean internal bleeding, which is an emergency. Call right away if you see these signs.
Cancer Care for Exotic Pets
Rabbits, ferrets, rats, birds, and reptiles can develop tumors too. Our veterinarians who focus on exotics medicine can examine your pet and discuss whether surgery is a good option for their species and health.
Practice Highlights
Cedar Animal Hospital is proud to care for pets from Cedar Springs and across West Michigan:
- Advanced Diagnostics: Full in-house laboratory, ultrasound, and CT scan
- Multiple Surgical Suites: Dedicated space for planned and emergency surgery
- In-House ICU: 24/7 nursing care after surgery
- AAHA-Accredited: Caring for pets since April 1993
- Flexible Payment Options: Cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay
Schedule Your Pet's Cancer Surgery Consultation Today
If you have found a lump on your pet or have questions about a diagnosis, call Cedar Animal Hospital at (616) 696-1212. We will help you understand what is going on and plan the next steps together. Visit us at 3705 Gentle Way, Cedar Springs, MI 49319, across the street from Meijer, behind Aldi.
Cancer Surgery: Frequently Asked Questions
Should every lump on my pet be checked?
Yes. Many lumps are harmless fatty masses, but some cancers look and feel the same. A quick exam and needle sample can often tell us what a lump is. Call (616) 696-1212 to schedule a visit if you find something new.
Will surgery cure my pet’s cancer?
It depends on the type of tumor, its size, and whether it has spread. Some tumors are cured by complete removal, while others need further monitoring or treatment. The biopsy report after surgery helps us give you the clearest picture.
What is a biopsy and why do you recommend it?
A biopsy is a tissue sample examined by a pathologist. It tells us the exact type of tumor and whether it was completely removed. That information guides any next steps in your pet’s care.
How much does cancer surgery cost?
Cost depends on the size and location of the tumor, the testing needed, the biopsy, and the hospital stay. We provide a written estimate before surgery. Please call (616) 696-1212 for an estimate. CareCredit and Scratchpay are available.
Is my older pet too old for surgery?
Age alone is not a reason to avoid surgery. We look at your pet’s overall health, bloodwork, and imaging to judge anesthesia risk. Your veterinarian will talk honestly with you about benefits and risks so you can decide what is right. Call (616) 696-1212 with any questions.
