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Chemotherapy is the therapeutic use of chemical agents to destroy or inhibit the growth and division of cancer cells. Usually, chemotherapy is used when tumors are widespread or when there is significant or immediate risk of spread from the primary location. It is often used following the surgical removal of tumors. In some cases, chemotherapy is started prior to surgery. The side effects of chemotherapy are related to the effects of chemotherapy on normal -as well as cancerous- cells. The principal goal of cancer care in pets is to provide cancer control without reducing quality of life.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a tumor of the cells that make up the contact or upper layer of the skin. UV light exposure has been described as a developmental factor in people and appears to be associated with its development in cats. Areas affected include the ear tips, skin, toes, or peri-ocular region. Fine needle aspiration or biopsy may be performed for diagnosis. The metastatic rate does not appear overly clear, though staging is always recommended. SCC of the toe can occur as a primary tumor or may have spread from the lung (lung-digit syndrome). Surgery is almost always recommended in any case of SCC; the role of chemotherapy is controversial. Radiation therapy has an excellent response rate in cats with the SCC affecting the nasal planum and may give long-term tumor control.
*Covered services vary by plan. Unlimited exams exclude specialty and telemedicine exams. Plan includes (i) one Specialty Care consult at a participating VCA Specialty Hospital and (ii) one waived fee (up to $300) for an emergency or specialty consult at a participating BluePearl Pet Hospital, per year. Fees will apply for other services or products provided, including emergency stabilization, treatment, diagnostic tests, medications, and hospitalization. Plan pricing requires 12-month commitment.
CareClub Memberships are preventive pet health care plans and not pet insurance.
CareClub Membership covers only the selected health care services and products which are specifically identified in the applicable CareClub Membership agreement.
VCA Animal Hospitals, BluePearl Pet Hospitals, and Banfield Pet Hospitals are affiliates of Mars Inc.
**Live Chat with a licensed veterinary professional is free for VCA clients through the myVCA mobile app, available at Apple’s App Store and Google Play.
Free First Exam only for new clients (including those not seen in 3+ years) and eligible existing clients adding a new pet. Limit two pets (dogs or cats only) per household. The exam includes a status check on weight, nutrition and general health, parasite discussion, dental check and vaccination overview only. Not valid toward any other services including: any specialty, emergency, telemedicine and/or urgent care veterinary services; boarding or grooming services; any diagnostics or treatments; or any vaccines, medications or retail items. Not to be combined with any other offer. Redeemable only at the VCA Animal Hospitals location listed. For pet owners who are aged 18 and older. No cash value.
Florida Residents: THE PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT.
NJ Residents: First Exam Regular Price Range: $75 to $150. NJ Licensee: Anthony Loomis, DVM.
Free First Dose offer valid for new patients receiving a qualifying initial exam at participating VCA Animal Hospitals. Offer applies only where an eligible parasite prevention product included in the program is prescribed and dispensed during the visit, as determined by the attending veterinarian. Eligible products only; not valid toward other products or services. Limit two pets (dogs or cats only) per household. Not combinable with other offers. Must be 18 years or older. No cash value.
