Cutaneous mast cell neoplasia in cats: 14 cases (1975-1985).

Cutaneous mast cell neoplasia was diagnosed in 14 cats from January 1975 to September 1985. Review of the available medical records and client communication provided information on tumor description, location, and recurrence, and each cat's current status. Twenty-three cutaneous mast cell neoplasms were surgically excised, examined, and graded histologically. In this study, feline cutaneous mast cell tumors did not metastasize to lymph nodes or viscera, did not recur at a previous excision site, and did not cause or contribute to the death of any cat. A histologic grading system described for canine mast cell tumors apparently provided no prognostic information for the cats in this study. There was a predilection for older male cats to develop cutaneous mast cell tumors, especially on the head and neck.