Abstract
COMPANION animal mammary gland neoplasias are common conditions seen in general practice. Most can be managed by surgical resection and there is usually no need for referral. The majority of mammary tumours in bitches are benign, while those in cats tend to be malignant and the prognosis is consequently guarded in this species. Overall, mammary tumours are less common in cats than dogs, which is probably related to the fact that most cats are neutered at a young age. Although general features such as the lesion being well circumscribed, slow growing and not fixed to underlying tissues suggest a lesion is benign, surgical biopsy should be conducted to definitively determine whether a mass is benign or malignant. This article describes canine and feline mammary tumours, highlighting the risk factors, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis.

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