Pet Blog > Cat Cancer: What to Know

Cat Cancer: What to Know

Cancer is a term used to describe a group of diseases that are characterized by the uncontrolled growth and division of cells. In cats, cancer can affect any part of the body, including the skin, bones, blood, and organs. It is a leading cause of death in cats, especially as they get older.

There are many different types of cancer that can affect cats. The most common types of cancer in cats include:

Lymphoma: This type of cancer affects the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system. Lymphoma can cause swelling of the lymph nodes, difficulty breathing, weight loss, and fatigue.
Squamous cell carcinoma: This type of cancer affects the skin and can cause the development of tumors on the ears, face, and nose.
Mammary gland tumors: These tumors develop in the mammary glands, which are the glands that produce milk. Mammary gland tumors are more common in female cats that have not been spayed.
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV): This virus can weaken a cat's immune system and make them more susceptible to developing cancer. FeLV is spread through saliva, urine, and feces, so it is important to keep cats indoors and away from other cats that may be infected. Learn more about FeLV.

There are several factors that can increase a cat's risk of developing cancer. Age is a major risk factor, as cancer is more common in older cats. Additionally, certain breeds of cats, such as Siamese and Maine Coon, are more likely to develop cancer.

Environmental factors can also play a role in a cat's risk of developing cancer. Exposure to certain chemicals, such as pesticides and herbicides, can increase a cat's risk. Additionally, cats that have been spayed or neutered have a lower risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as mammary gland tumors.

Symptoms of Cancer in Cats

The symptoms of cancer in cats can vary depending on the type and location of the cancer. Some common symptoms of cancer in cats include:

Lumps or masses on the skin
Weight loss
Loss of appetite
Difficulty breathing
Changes in bathroom habits
Swelling of the lymph nodes
Bleeding or discharge from any body opening

If your cat is showing any of these symptoms, it is important to take them to the veterinarian as soon as possible. The veterinarian will perform a physical examination and may recommend additional tests, such as blood work, X-rays, or a biopsy, to diagnose the cancer.

Treatment for cancer in cats

Once cancer has been diagnosed in a cat, the next step is to consider the available treatment options. The type of treatment recommended will depend on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the overall health and age of the cat. Some common treatment options for cancer in cats include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Treatment options for cancer in cats depends on the type and stage of the cancer. Some common treatments include:

Surgery: This is the most common treatment for cancer in cats. The surgeon will remove the cancerous tissue, as well as a margin of healthy tissue around it, to ensure that all of the cancerous cells have been removed.
Chemotherapy: This is a type of treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be administered orally, through injection, or through a catheter.
Radiation therapy: This is a type of treatment that uses high-energy beams, such as X-rays, to kill cancer cells.
Immunotherapy: This is a type of treatment that uses the cat's own immune system to fight the cancer.

The success of cancer treatment in cats depends on many factors, including the type of cancer, the stage of the cancer, and the overall health of the cat. In general, the earlier the cancer is detected and treated, the better the outcome will be.

Conclusion

Cats sadly do get cancer similar to people. Keeping an eye on changes in your cat’s behavior and getting her to the vet is the best way to find cancer early when treatment options are less invasive and have a higher change of being most effective.

Return to the Pet Blog