🧠 Understanding Meningiomas in Dogs and Cats: A 2025 Veterinary Guide

Author: Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Meningiomas are the most common primary brain tumors in both dogs and cats. While often benign, their location within the skull can lead to significant neurological issues. This guide provides an in-depth look at meningiomas, including their symptoms, diagnostic methods, treatment options, and prognosis.

🔍 What is a Meningioma?

A meningioma is a tumor that arises from the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. These tumors grow inward from the skull, potentially compressing brain tissue and leading to various neurological symptoms.

🐶 Meningiomas in Dogs

📊 Prevalence and Risk Factors

• Account for approximately 50% of all primary brain tumors in dogs.
• Common in older dogs, typically over 7 years of age.
• Breeds with long noses (dolichocephalic breeds) like Collies and Golden Retrievers are more predisposed.

🧠 Symptoms

• Seizures are the most common symptom.
• Behavioral changes, such as aggression or confusion.
• Circling, head pressing, or uncoordinated movements.
• Vision problems or blindness.

🧪 Diagnosis

• Neurological examination to assess deficits.
• Advanced imaging like MRI or CT scans to locate and assess the tumor.
• Blood tests to evaluate overall health and rule out other conditions.

💊 Treatment Options

• Surgery: Preferred treatment when the tumor is accessible; complete removal can be challenging due to infiltration into brain tissue.
• Radiation Therapy: Often used post-surgery or when surgery isn't feasible; helps control tumor growth.
• Medications: Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and anticonvulsants to manage seizures.
• Chemotherapy: Limited effectiveness due to the blood-brain barrier; research is ongoing.

📈 Prognosis

• Varies based on tumor location, size, and treatment efficacy.
• Median survival time post-surgery is approximately 7 months, which can extend with adjunct therapies.

🐱 Meningiomas in Cats

📊 Prevalence and Risk Factors

• Account for up to 85% of all primary brain tumors in cats.
• Common in older cats, typically over 10 years of age.
• Male cats may be slightly more predisposed.

🧠 Symptoms

• Behavioral changes, such as increased aggression or withdrawal.
• Lethargy and decreased appetite.
• Circling, head tilt, or uncoordinated movements.
• Seizures are less common compared to dogs.

🧪 Diagnosis

• Neurological examination to identify deficits.
• MRI or CT scans to visualize the tumor.
• Blood tests to assess overall health.

💊 Treatment Options

• Surgery: Often successful due to the tumor's well-defined nature; complete removal is more achievable in cats.
• Radiation Therapy: Considered when surgery isn't possible or if residual tumor remains post-surgery.
• Medications: Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms.

📈 Prognosis

• Generally favorable with complete surgical removal.
• Median survival time post-surgery can exceed 2 years.

🧬 Research and Advances

Ongoing research is exploring the use of immunotherapy and targeted treatments to improve outcomes for pets with meningiomas. Advances in imaging and surgical techniques continue to enhance the ability to diagnose and treat these tumors effectively.

📱 Need Veterinary Assistance?

If you suspect your pet may be showing signs of a meningioma or have concerns about their neurological health, consult with a veterinarian promptly. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes.

For expert advice and support, consider reaching out through AskAVet.com or download the Ask A Vet app for personalized guidance on your pet's health.