Management of cancer pain.

Pain secondary to cancer in animals should be promptly addressed to alleviate suffering, stress, and anxiety and to improve quality of life. Uncontrolled cancer pain can have a negative effect on the owners and caregivers of affected animals. The pathophysiology of cancer pain is discussed in this article, along with pain evaluation and monitoring. Treatment of cancer pain should be individualized, and a step-wise approach to the management of cancer pain is presented. The use of opioids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and adjuvant medications are also reviewed.