Computed tomographic findings and histopathological features of suspected facial chondrosarcoma in a domestic shorthair cat ( <i>Felis catus</i> )

Abstract An 8‐year‐old, female, neutered domestic shorthair cat was referred for further investigation of a right‐sided facial swelling and hypersalivation of 2–3 months’ duration. The cat had a firm, non‐painful, facial mass arising from the right side of its mandible, and a reduced vertical mandibular range of motion of 20 mm. Computed tomography revealed a poorly defined, mineralised and soft tissue hyperattenuating lesion, centred on the condylar process of the right mandibular ramus. An incisional biopsy of the mass was highly suggestive of a chondrosarcoma. Surgical excision was not feasible due to the extent of the lesion. The cat was continued on palliative treatment with non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory medication (meloxicam). Despite the restricted range of mouth opening and continued slow tumour growth, the cat remained comfortable and maintained normal activity for 6 months from the onset of clinical signs until euthanasia was elected due to increasing difficulty eating and grooming.