Mast cells are normal inflammatory cells that are produced in the bone marrow and mature in connective or mucosal tissues.

Malignant melanoma is the most common oral tumor in the dog.

Chemotherapy can cause adverse effects in veterinary cancer patients.

Oral tumors in cats present a challenge. These tumors are usually noticed only at very advanced stages.

Goals of chemotherapy: tumor control, prolonged survival, maintain quality of life.

Use of energy (photons) or energized particles (electrons, protons, neutrons) to kill cancer cells.