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My senior dog has mammary cancer. Can she have surgery at her age?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Maltese | Female | unspayed | 16 years and 3 months old | 6 lbs

Hi there! My 16 year old Maltese girl has mammary cancer and I’d like to know if surgery can be done???

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on August 6th, 2019

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! That is certainly possible and recommended. Age is not necessarily a contraindication to surgery if they are being careful with the anesthesia. Keep in mind that most dogs that develop mammary tumors are older and have surgery and do fine. Best of luck!

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