Veterinary Oncology Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Animal Type (Canine, Feline, Others), By Treatment Type (Radiotherapy, Surgery, Chemotherapy, Others), By Cancer Type (Skin Cancers, Lymphomas, Sarcomas, Others), By Region and Competition, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Global Veterinary Oncology Market was valued at USD 1.62 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 3.23 Billion in the forecast period with a CAGR of 12.14% through 2030. The Global Veterinary Oncology Market is witnessing significant growth driven by the increasing awareness about pet cancer and the advancements in veterinary oncology treatments. As pets are increasingly considered family members, pet owners are more inclined to seek specialized treatments for conditions like cancer, which were previously seen as difficult to treat. This shift in attitude has led to greater investment in veterinary oncology services and infrastructure, making cancer treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation more accessible. Furthermore, the growth of veterinary oncology centers and specialized veterinary oncologists has contributed to the market’s expansion, offering pets high-quality care.

Key drivers include the rising incidence of cancer in pets, particularly among older animals, and the rapid advancements in veterinary cancer treatments. Emerging therapies such as immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and new chemotherapy drugs have enhanced treatment effectiveness, offering better outcomes for pets diagnosed with cancer. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, including MRI, CT scans, and PET scans, has improved early detection, allowing for more successful treatment interventions. As pet owners demand more personalized care for their animals, the need for specialized oncology treatments continues to rise, driving market growth.

Despite the promising growth prospects, the market faces several challenges. One major issue is the high cost associated with cancer treatment in pets, which may limit access to advanced therapies for some pet owners. Moreover, the shortage of qualified veterinary oncologists in some regions poses a significant challenge, as specialized care may not be readily available. Additionally, the lack of awareness about the benefits of early detection and treatment remains a barrier in some markets, delaying diagnosis and treatment. However, the rising adoption of telemedicine and increased availability of affordable diagnostic options offer opportunities to address these challenges, making veterinary oncology services more accessible to a wider population of pet owners.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Incidence of Cancer in Pets

The rising incidence of cancer in pets is a significant driver for the growth of the Global Veterinary Oncology Market. As pets live longer due to advances in veterinary care and nutrition, the likelihood of age-related diseases, including cancer, has increased. Cancer is now one of the leading causes of death in older pets, particularly in dogs and cats. This rising prevalence has prompted greater attention from pet owners and veterinary professionals toward early detection and specialized treatment options. The types of cancers commonly observed in pets include lymphoma, mast cell tumors, osteosarcoma, and mammary gland tumors, among others, with some breeds being more predisposed to specific types of cancer. With pets living longer, these conditions are becoming more common, contributing to an increased demand for specialized oncology care and treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

As awareness about the prevalence and impact of cancer in pets grows, more pet owners are seeking out veterinary oncology services to ensure that their animals receive the best possible care. The development of advanced diagnostic tools, including MRIs, CT scans, and PET scans, has made it easier to detect cancer in pets at earlier stages, which is critical for improving treatment outcomes. Early diagnosis allows for more effective intervention, which can lead to longer and healthier lives for pets diagnosed with cancer. The growing recognition of the importance of timely treatment and the desire to extend the lives of beloved pets are key factors contributing to the rising demand for oncology services. This trend is expected to continue as the global pet population increases and the focus on pet health becomes more prominent.

Recent statistics highlight the prevalence of certain cancers in pets. For instance, lymphoma is one of the most common cancers in dogs, accounting for approximately 7-24% of all canine cancers. Mast cell tumors are also prevalent, representing about 20% of all skin tumors in dogs. Osteosarcoma, a bone cancer, is the most common primary bone tumor in dogs, accounting for approximately 85% of all bone tumors. Mammary gland tumors are common in female dogs, especially those that are unspayed or spayed later in life, with an incidence rate of about 0.5-1.5% in the general dog population. These statistics underscore the importance of early detection and specialized treatment options in veterinary oncology.

Advancements in Veterinary Oncology Treatments

Advancements in veterinary oncology treatments have significantly contributed to the growth of the Global Veterinary Oncology Market. The development of innovative therapies, including targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and gene therapies, has transformed the treatment landscape for pets with cancer. These treatments are designed to target cancer cells more precisely, reducing the impact on healthy tissues and improving overall outcomes. For instance, targeted therapies focus on specific molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer, offering more effective treatment with fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy. Immunotherapies, which stimulate the pet's immune system to fight cancer cells, are also gaining popularity due to their potential to offer long-term remission with reduced toxicity.

The introduction of advanced radiotherapy techniques, such as stereotactic radiation therapy (SRT), has further expanded treatment options for pet owners. SRT uses highly focused beams of radiation to target cancerous cells with precision, allowing for fewer treatment sessions and faster recovery times. These advancements in treatment options are making veterinary oncology more effective, efficient, and accessible to pet owners.

Furthermore, the development of personalized medicine tailored to an individual pet's genetic profile is revolutionizing cancer treatment. By using genetic testing to identify mutations specific to the pet's cancer, veterinarians can prescribe treatments that are more likely to be effective, improving survival rates and minimizing unnecessary side effects. As these cutting-edge treatment options become more widely available and accessible, they are driving the demand for veterinary oncology services and contributing to the continued growth of the market. With continuous advancements in research and technology, the landscape of veterinary oncology is expected to keep evolving, offering new hope to pets diagnosed with cancer.

In 2023, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) awarded administrative supplements to support canine comparative oncology research, aiming to enhance the understanding of cancer treatments in both dogs and humans. This initiative underscores the commitment to advancing veterinary oncology through collaborative research efforts.

The Comparative Oncology Trials Consortium (COTC), managed by the NCI's Center for Cancer Research, is actively conducting clinical trials in collaboration with academic veterinary institutions across the United States. These trials focus on assessing novel therapies for canine cancers, with the goal of translating findings to benefit both animals and humans.

The FDA's approval of the first full treatment for canine lymphoma in 2020 marked a significant milestone in veterinary oncology, providing veterinarians with an important tool to extend the quality of life for dogs with lymphoma.

These developments highlight the ongoing progress in veterinary oncology, driven by advancements in treatment modalities, research initiatives, and regulatory approvals, all of which contribute to improved outcomes for pets diagnosed with cancer.

Development of Clinical Trials for Veterinary Oncology

The development of clinical trials for veterinary oncology is a significant driver of growth in the Global Veterinary Oncology Market. ClinicalTrials.gov, a database maintained by the U.S. National Library of Medicine, lists numerous clinical trials focused on veterinary oncology, reflecting the increasing interest and investment in this area. These trials are essential for evaluating the efficacy and safety of new treatments, including innovative drugs, immunotherapies, and gene therapies. They provide valuable data that inform the development of more effective, personalized oncology therapies for pets.

Clinical trials also facilitate the advancement of novel therapeutic approaches, such as targeted therapies that aim to treat cancer cells specifically, minimizing damage to healthy tissue. These breakthroughs can lead to the development of treatments that are both highly effective and less invasive than traditional options like chemotherapy. As clinical trials continue to yield positive results, they not only enhance treatment options but also help build confidence among pet owners and veterinarians in adopting these new therapies.

Moreover, clinical trials play a crucial role in regulatory approvals. Successful trials provide the necessary data for obtaining approval from regulatory bodies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the European Medicines Agency (EMA), paving the way for these therapies to be made widely available to veterinary clinics. The ongoing expansion of clinical trials in veterinary oncology is essential for ensuring continuous innovation in treatment options, thus driving market growth. This progress is also attracting investment from pharmaceutical companies and research institutions, creating a cycle of continuous development and availability of new therapies for companion animals battling cancer.

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Key Market Challenges

High Cost of Treatment

The high cost of cancer treatment for pets presents a significant challenge in the veterinary oncology market. For instance, chemotherapy for dogs can range from USD 150 to USD 600 per dose, with total treatment costs often exceeding USD 10,000, depending on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the treatment protocol.

These expenses encompass various components, including initial consultations, diagnostic tests, surgical procedures, chemotherapy sessions, radiation therapy, and follow-up care. The cumulative financial burden can be overwhelming for many pet owners, leading to difficult decisions regarding the extent of treatment pursued.

The high costs are influenced by factors such as the complexity of the cancer, the need for specialized veterinary oncologists, advanced diagnostic imaging, and the use of cutting-edge therapeutic modalities. While these treatments offer improved survival rates and quality of life for pets, the associated expenses can be prohibitive.

To mitigate these costs, some pet owners turn to pet insurance, which may cover a portion of the expenses. However, coverage varies, and not all policies include oncology treatments. This variability can lead to financial strain, especially when insurance does not fully cover the costs.

Addressing the high cost of veterinary oncology is crucial to ensure that advanced cancer treatments remain accessible to a broader range of pet owners, thereby improving the quality of life and survival rates for companion animals diagnosed with cancer.

Side Effects and Complications of Treatments

One significant challenge in the Global Veterinary Oncology Market is the side effects and complications associated with cancer treatments, particularly chemotherapy and radiation therapies. These treatments, while effective in targeting cancer cells, can have harmful impacts on healthy tissue as well. Chemotherapy drugs, for example, can lead to symptoms such as nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, and fatigue in pets, which can decrease their quality of life during treatment. Radiation therapy can also cause side effects like skin irritation, hair loss, and long-term tissue damage, which can be distressing for both the animal and its owner.

These adverse effects often require additional medications or treatments to manage, which increases the overall cost and complexity of care. In some cases, pets may experience long-term side effects, including reduced immune function or organ damage, which can further complicate their recovery. The risk of these complications can discourage pet owners from opting for these aggressive treatments, especially when there is uncertainty about the pet’s long-term prognosis or recovery.

Managing side effects in veterinary oncology requires a multidisciplinary approach involving veterinary oncologists, nutritionists, and pain management specialists to ensure that pets receive comprehensive care during their treatment journey. Despite advancements in drug formulations and treatment techniques aimed at minimizing these side effects, the potential for complications remains a barrier to treatment for many pet owners. As the market for veterinary oncology continues to grow, addressing the issue of treatment-related side effects and finding ways to reduce their impact on pets' health and well-being will be crucial for ensuring broader adoption of oncology care.

Key Market Trends

Growing Use of Advanced Diagnostic Tools

The growing use of advanced diagnostic tools in the Global Veterinary Oncology Market is a significant trend reshaping the landscape of cancer detection and treatment for pets. Technologies such as MRI, CT scans, PET scans, and liquid biopsies are increasingly being employed by veterinary oncologists to provide more accurate, early-stage cancer diagnoses. These tools enable veterinarians to detect tumors that are often invisible in traditional physical exams, allowing for timely intervention and more effective treatment plans. For instance, MRI and CT scans offer high-resolution imaging that helps in identifying the precise location, size, and extent of tumors, which is critical for determining the best treatment approach.

The integration of liquid biopsies, which detect cancer-related genetic mutations in a pet’s blood or other bodily fluids, has also gained traction. These non-invasive tests allow for the monitoring of cancer progression and recurrence, reducing the need for more invasive procedures like biopsies. The increasing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms in diagnostic imaging is further enhancing the accuracy and speed of cancer diagnosis. AI-driven tools can analyze vast amounts of imaging data to identify patterns that may be missed by the human eye, providing more precise results in a shorter time frame. This level of precision not only improves the likelihood of successful outcomes but also minimizes unnecessary treatments or procedures.

As these advanced diagnostic tools become more accessible and affordable, they are likely to play a pivotal role in expanding the scope of veterinary oncology services. Pet owners, who are becoming more knowledgeable about the importance of early detection, are driving the demand for such technologies. The trend of using advanced diagnostic tools is fostering better-informed treatment decisions, improved survival rates, and an overall higher standard of care in veterinary oncology.

Integration of Holistic and Complementary Therapies

The integration of holistic and complementary therapies into veterinary oncology is becoming an increasingly prominent trend as pet owners seek comprehensive care for their animals. These therapies are gaining popularity due to their potential to alleviate symptoms associated with cancer treatments, improve overall well-being, and enhance the quality of life for pets undergoing conventional oncology treatments. Practices such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutritional support, and massage therapy are being utilized alongside traditional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. These complementary approaches help manage side effects such as pain, nausea, and fatigue, while also supporting the pet's immune system and reducing stress.

Holistic therapies are particularly appealing to pet owners who want to take a more natural or non-invasive approach to their pets' care. They are also being used to help pets manage chronic conditions that may arise because of cancer treatments, such as digestive problems or weight loss. The demand for these therapies has led to a rise in specialized veterinary practices that focus on integrating holistic methods with conventional oncology care, offering a more personalized treatment plan.

In addition, there is increasing collaboration between veterinary oncologists and holistic practitioners, as both fields recognize the benefits of a multi-disciplinary approach to cancer care. This trend has been supported by growing evidence and research that demonstrates the positive effects of complementary therapies in managing cancer symptoms and improving treatment outcomes. As awareness of these therapies expands, more veterinary practices are incorporating them into their offerings, leading to a more holistic, well-rounded approach to veterinary oncology.

Segmental Insights

Animal Type Insights

Based on the Animal Type, Canine emerged as the dominant segment in the Global Veterinary Oncology Market in 2024. This is due to the higher incidence of cancer in dogs compared to other animals, particularly as they age. Approximately 47% of dogs over the age of 10 develop cancer, a figure that compares with cats at roughly 32%. As the pet population continues to age, the prevalence of age-related cancers such as lymphoma, mast cell tumors, and osteosarcoma has risen significantly in dogs. With increased life expectancy and advancements in veterinary care, more dogs are living longer, thereby increasing their susceptibility to cancer. As a result, there is a growing demand for specialized oncology treatments tailored to canine patients. Additionally, dogs are more commonly kept as pets compared to other animals, leading to a larger market for their healthcare needs. Pet owners are becoming increasingly aware of the availability of cancer treatments and are more willing to invest in advanced oncology care for their dogs, recognizing them as family members. The demand for treatment options like chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy is driving the market for canine cancer care. Veterinary oncology practices are also focusing on developing and refining treatment protocols specifically for dogs, further fueling the growth of this segment.

Cancer Type Insights

Based on the Cancer Type, Skin Cancers emerged as the dominant segment in the Global Veterinary Oncology Market in 2024. This is due to their high prevalence in both dogs and cats. Skin tumors, including mast cell tumors, melanomas, and squamous cell carcinomas, are among the most diagnosed cancers in pets, particularly in dogs. These cancers often manifest as visible lumps or growths on the skin, making early detection easier and more likely, which contributes to their higher diagnosis rate compared to other types of cancers. The increased awareness among pet owners regarding skin conditions has also contributed to the growth of this segment. Pet owners are more likely to monitor their pets for external signs such as lumps or growths, leading to earlier detection and treatment. Moreover, certain breeds, such as boxers, bulldogs, and Labrador retrievers, are more prone to developing skin cancers, further increasing the prevalence of these conditions in the pet population.

Advancements in diagnostic techniques, such as fine-needle aspiration biopsies and advanced imaging technologies, have improved the detection and treatment options available for skin cancers. Treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy, have become more effective, making skin cancer management more accessible and successful. These factors collectively contribute to skin cancers being the dominant segment in the veterinary oncology market.

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Regional Insights

North America emerged as the dominant region in the Global Veterinary Oncology Market in 2024. This is due to a combination of factors, including a high pet ownership rate, increased awareness of veterinary oncology, and access to advanced healthcare facilities. In North America, particularly in the U.S. and Canada, pets are considered integral family members, which has led to a growing demand for specialized veterinary care, including oncology treatments. As pet owners become more aware of the availability of advanced cancer treatments, they are increasingly willing to invest in therapies like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery to improve the quality of life for their pets. The presence of a well-established healthcare infrastructure with many veterinary oncology specialists is another key driver. North America has seen significant growth in veterinary practices offering specialized cancer treatments, supported by advancements in diagnostic tools, treatments, and veterinary oncology research. The region is also home to leading veterinary pharmaceutical companies and research institutions, which are continuously innovating and developing new cancer therapies for animals. Furthermore, pet insurance coverage is more prevalent in North America compared to other regions, allowing more pet owners to afford costly cancer treatments. This financial support has expanded the market for veterinary oncology services, making North America the largest market for these treatments globally.

Recent Developments

• In September 2024, Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH acquired Saiba Animal Health AG to enhance its portfolio of animal therapeutics. This strategic acquisition, along with the company’s advanced vaccine development platform, is expected to significantly strengthen its presence in the veterinary oncology sector.
• In July 2024, Dechra Pharmaceuticals PLC completed the acquisition of Invetx, further expanding its pipeline and bolstering its offerings in the veterinary care market.
• In March 2024, Merck & Co., Inc. finalized its acquisition of Harpoon Therapeutics, Inc., broadening its oncology portfolio and advancing its presence in the global oncology market.
• In January 2024, ELIAS Animal Health achieved a significant milestone as the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Center for Veterinary Biologics confirmed that the data from its ECI-OSA-04 pivotal combined safety and efficacy study demonstrated a reasonable expectation of efficacy, marking an important step in the licensure pathway for canine cancer treatment.
• In October 2023, Merck Animal Health, also known as MSD Animal Health outside of the U.S. and Canada, announced the availability of its monoclonal antibody gilvetmab (gil-VET-mab) to veterinary oncology specialists across the U.S., further enhancing its oncology offerings.

Key Market Players

• Elanco Animal Health Incorporated
• Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH
• Zoetis Inc.
• Elekta AB
• PetCure Oncology
• Accuray Incorporated
• Varian Medical Systems, Inc.
• Virbac S.A.
• Merck & Co., Inc.
• Dechra Pharmaceuticals PLC
• NovaVive Inc.
• Ardent Animal Health, LLC

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Veterinary Oncology Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Veterinary Oncology Market, By Animal Type:

o   Canine

o   Feline

o   Others

• Veterinary Oncology Market, By Treatment Type:

o   Radiotherapy

o   Surgery

o   Chemotherapy

o   Others

• Veterinary Oncology Market, By Cancer Type:

o   Skin Cancers

o   Lymphomas

o   Sarcomas

o   Others

• Veterinary Oncology Market, By Region:

o   North America

§  United States

§  Canada

§  Mexico

o   Europe

§  France

§  United Kingdom

§  Italy

§  Germany

§  Spain

o   Asia-Pacific

§  China

§  India

§  Japan

§  Australia

§  South Korea

o   South America

§  Brazil

§  Argentina

§  Colombia

o   Middle East & Africa

§  South Africa

§  Saudi Arabia

§  UAE

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Veterinary Oncology Market.

Available Customizations:

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Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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