What are the common symptoms of ovarian tumors in dogs and cats?

Common signs include abdominal swelling or ascites, thinning or patchy hair loss, and changes in appetite and energy level. If your pet shows difficulty breathing or collapses, seek immediate veterinary attention.

What tests does the vet use to confirm an ovarian tumour?

The vet will typically begin with a physical examination and blood panel, then arrange abdominal ultrasound and X-rays. A biopsy or advanced imaging (CT/MRI) may follow to confirm the pathology.

Is surgery always necessary for ovarian tumors?

In most cases surgical removal is the primary treatment, but whether adjunct chemotherapy or other procedures are needed depends on the pathology report and clinical assessment. Discuss the most suitable treatment plan with your vet.

What follow-up tests are needed after surgery?

Regular follow-up visits, blood tests, and imaging (ultrasound or X-rays) are usually required after surgery. Monitor wound healing, appetite, and energy levels, and schedule re-checks as directed by your vet.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Ovarian Tumors in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Ultrasound & Surgical Treatment [2025]

Ovarian tumors encompass several types, some hormone-secreting and causing systemic signs; surgical removal is the primary treatment.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/06

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ACVIM, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek emergency care immediately

•Obvious rapid or labored breathing
•Sudden severe weakness, prolonged fainting, or unresponsiveness
•Severe abdominal pain, refusal to eat, and persistent refusal to drink

Schedule a clinic visit soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Gradual abdominal swelling or a palpable abdominal mass
•Localized significant hair loss or noticeably thinning coat
•Persistent changes in appetite or noticeable weight change within a short period

01What Symptoms Signal a Problem?

Ovarian tumors in dogs and cats most commonly present as abdominal changes and systemic signs; symptoms may develop gradually and be easy to miss at first.

Noticeable abdominal enlargement or ascites causing an increase in abdominal girth
Thinning coat or patchy hair loss with skin changes
Changes in appetite with significant weight gain or loss
Decreased activity, low energy, depression, or lethargy
Changes in urination or defecation habits or pattern

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing requires immediate veterinary care
⚠️ Sudden weakness, collapse, or prolonged unresponsiveness requires emergency care
⚠️ Severe abdominal pain or prolonged refusal to eat or drink

02How to Monitor at Home: Key Observations and When to Seek Emergency Care

Monitoring and recording changes at home helps your vet quickly assess disease progression and plan appropriate tests.

Weigh your pet daily and track the trend, noting any rapid short-term changes
Take photos or videos of the abdomen regularly and compare over time
Note the location, onset, and progression of any hair loss
Keep a detailed log of appetite, water intake, and urination and defecation
Monitor energy level, mental alertness, and respiratory rate for any changes
If you notice anything abnormal or worsening, arrange a vet appointment promptly

03How Will the Vet Diagnose It? Common Diagnostic Tests

At the clinic, the vet will start with a physical exam and imaging, arranging further tests when needed to confirm the diagnosis and staging.

Physical examination

abdominal palpation to assess mass location and pain

Blood panel

evaluation of liver and kidney function and overall health status

Radiography (X-rays)

assessment of the abdomen and thorax for signs of metastasis or ascites

Abdominal ultrasound

evaluation of the ovaries, tumour characteristics, and presence of ascites

Biopsy / histopathology

pathological examination to confirm cell type

CT or MRI when needed to evaluate complex lesions or suspected metastasis

04Treatment and Care After Diagnosis: Medications, Diet Adjustments, and Home Care Guide

Treatment centres on surgical removal; post-operative care and long-term monitoring are essential for prognosis and detecting recurrence.

Surgical removal is typically the primary treatment option; the extent of surgery depends on individual findings
Some cases may require adjunct chemotherapy or other medical therapies
Regular post-operative check-ups with blood tests and imaging are needed to monitor for changes
Home care, diet, and activity levels should be adjusted according to your vet's instructions
If ascites is present, periodic fluid drainage and imaging follow-up may be necessary
Discuss an individualised long-term monitoring plan with a specialist hospital

05What to Prepare Before the Vet Visit: Key Information to Help Your Vet Act Quickly

Record a timeline of when symptoms first appeared and how they have changed

Bring a recent log or chart of body weight, appetite, and urination and defecation

Prepare a list of all current medications and supplements with dosages

Bring photos or videos of the abdomen for the vet to compare

Bring past test results (bloodwork, imaging, pathology reports)

Consider booking a specialist clinic capable of imaging and biopsy in advance

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.