Canine urothelial carcinoma: NSAIDs, chemotherapy and stent
11-year-old female Shetland Sheepdog with confirmed urothelial carcinoma in the trigone extending into the proximal urethra. No visible metastases on thoracic radiographs. She strains to urinate but is not completely obstructed. Normal renal function.
Which statement about treatment is correct?
chevron_right Show answer and explanation
A. Partial cystectomy with margins is curative in most cases
The trigonal and urethral location rarely allows complete resection, and the tumour tends to be multifocal and to recur.
B. A COX-inhibiting NSAID (piroxicam or a COX-2 inhibitor) combined with chemotherapy (mitoxantrone or vinblastine) is the medical treatment of choice
Correct. NSAIDs have intrinsic antitumour activity in this carcinoma and improve quality of life; combining them with chemotherapy increases response rates. The aim is palliative: controlling the tumour and signs for months.
C. Prednisolone at anti-inflammatory doses, which shrinks the mass
Corticosteroids have no relevant effect on urothelial carcinoma and cannot be combined with NSAIDs because of the risk of gastrointestinal ulceration.
D. Place a urethral stent now to prevent obstruction
The stent is reserved for urethral obstruction; it is not preventive and may cause incontinence, which is not worthwhile here while she can still urinate.
lightbulb Key takeaway
Monitor renal function, the gastrointestinal tract and secondary urinary infections during treatment. If urethral or ureteral obstruction develops, a fluoroscopically placed stent gives rapid relief; incontinence is its commonest complication. Discuss goals and quality of life with the owner from the start.
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Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.