Last Updated on March 14, 2024 by Aftab Tariq
Cancer in cats is a common problem, with about one in five cats affected. There are several types of cancer that cats can develop, including lymphoma, squamous cell carcinoma, mast cell tumor, and bone cancer. /Dr. Elliott R. Jacobson says,
“Cancer in cats is a serious concern, but early detection can make a life-saving difference.”
When a cat is diagnosed with cancer, it can be very upsetting. However, some types of cancer can be treated if they are caught early. That’s why taking your cat to the vet for regular check-ups is important. Cats are good at hiding when sick, so it’s not always easy to tell if something’s wrong.
One of the main signs of cancer in cats is the presence of lumps or bumps on their body. If you notice any unusual lumps changing in size, it could be a sign of cancer. Your vet can perform a simple test to determine the best course of treatment.
You may be wondering what causes cancer in cats. Experts believe it could be due to various factors, such as environmental toxins or the feline leukemia virus. Let’s take a closer look at four common types of cat cancer.
Common Types of Cat Cancer
Lymphoma: Lymphoma is a kind of blood cancer that makes the lymph nodes swells up. These nodes are part of the body’s system for moving fluids around and cleaning out bad stuff.
So, if a cat has lymphoma, cancer cells might move through its body. Some experts think that cats might get lymphoma from the Feline Leukemia Virus. A vaccine can help lower the chance of getting this virus.
Mast Cell Tumors: Mast cell tumors are when some white blood cells in a cat’s body grow into lumps that shouldn’t be there. These lumps might not be harmful, but sometimes they can be cancerous.
To be sure, you should see your vet, who will take a small piece for testing. We’re not sure why cats get these lumps, but it happens more often in Siamese cats.
Bone Cancer: Bone cancer in cats is not very common, but when it happens, it can be serious. Signs of intestinal cancer in cats include your cat limping, swollen areas, or tiredness. We’re not exactly sure why cats get this type of cancer, but it happens more often in bigger cats, like large or giant breeds.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Squamous cell carcinoma occurs when certain skin cells grow abnormally, resembling tiny fish scales. These cells can turn cancerous in your cat’s mouth or on its body, possibly caused by exposure to secondhand smoke.
Symptoms include mouth sores or bad breath, and persistent skin sores could indicate skin cancer, another form of squamous cell carcinoma. Prompt veterinary evaluation is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Cancer In Cats Eye
When we talk about a tumor in a cat’s eye, we mean different kinds of lumps or growths that can be either harmful (cancerous) or not dangerous (non-cancerous).
The most common ones are called melanocytic eye tumors, which might turn into something called uveal melanoma. This happens when certain darkly colored cells called melanocytes start growing too much and can’t be controlled.
Cancer In Cats Nose
Cancerous growths in the nasal cavity and sinuses can affect cats. These tumors are not as frequent in cats as in dogs, accounting for only about 1% of all cat tumors.
The main types of nasal tumors seen in cats are squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), lymphoma, and carcinoma.
Cancer In Cats Abdomen
Cancer affecting a cat’s abdomen poses a significant health threat, often leading to symptoms such as weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, and abdominal swelling. Types of abdominal cancers in cats can include lymphoma, mast cell tumors, and carcinomas.
Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests like ultrasounds and X-rays, along with biopsies for confirmation. Treatment options may vary depending on the type and extent of cancer but can include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Prompt veterinary attention and tailored treatment plans are crucial for managing abdominal cancer in cats and maximizing their quality of life.
Cancer In Cats Stomachs
Stomach cancer isn’t common in cats, but it’s a big worry for their health. It’s tricky because it can start quietly and show lots of different symptoms as it gets worse. Finding it early and treating it fast can help a cat live better and longer.
Stomach cancer means bad tumors are growing in a cat’s stomach lining. These tumors can be of different sizes and types. The most common type is called adenocarcinomas.
Cancer In Cats Throat
Even though older cats can get different kinds of cancer, throat and larynx cancer is not common, even in cats of any age. The most talked about type of throat cancer in cats is lymphoma. It makes tumors grow in the throat and the larynx, where the vocal cords are.
These tumors can hurt a lot, making it hard for your cat to swallow and even changing how their voice sounds.
Cancer In Cats Ear
Ear cancer isn’t very common in cats, but it’s a serious problem that needs quick action. Knowing what causes it, spotting its signs, and knowing the treatment choices are important for any cat owner in this tough situation.
These tumors are usually in the outer ear canal and outer ear, but sometimes, they can be in the inner or middle ear. Getting a diagnosis fast and starting treatment immediately is crucial for the cat’s chances of getting better.
Cancer In Cats Mouth
When cells in a cat’s mouth grow abnormally, it’s called an oral tumor. Just like in humans, a cat’s mouth has different kinds of cells that can turn cancerous, like skin, bone, and fibrous cells. Some tumors grow slowly and don’t usually spread, which we call benign.
Others are aggressive and can spread quickly, known as malignant. Sadly, in cats, over 90% of oral tumors are the aggressive kind.
Cancer In Cats: Symptoms
Following are early signs of cancer in cats.
Foul odor: Cats usually don’t have a bad smell. If you notice an unusual odor, it could signify something wrong.
Persistent sores: Sores that don’t go away need attention from a vet. They might be a sign of cancer or another problem.
Difficulty with bathroom chores: If your cat struggles with going to the bathroom, it could be a sign of cancer or another health issue.
Loss of appetite: Cats love to eat, so if yours suddenly doesn’t want to, it might be a red flag.
Unexplained bleeding: If your cat bleeds and you don’t know why, it’s best to get them checked out.
Lethargy: Cats are usually playful. It could be a sign of illness if you are tired and inactive.
These symptoms might not always mean cancer. But monitoring your cat’s health and visiting the vet regularly is important. We recommend check-ups twice yearly for cats aged 8 and up to catch any problems early.
Cancer In Cats Survival Rate
Survival rates for cats with cancer can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of tumor when it’s detected and the treatment approach. Generally, considering all types of cancer, the survival rate for cats is likely below 50%.
Cancer In Cats Treatment
The first step in treating cancer in cats is getting the right diagnosis. At Seven Hills Veterinary Hospital, we start with a thorough physical exam. We often check blood work and use imaging like X-rays or ultrasounds if needed.
We also do needle aspirates, a type of biopsy where we collect cells from the tumor with a needle to figure out what type of tumor it is. This is a painless and minimally invasive way to diagnose cancer. Sometimes, certain types of tumors need a core biopsy for a diagnosis. In special cases, we might bring in cancer specialists for more tests like MRI or CT scans, and they’ll work with us to treat your cat’s cancer.
It’s really important that we keep you informed and involved throughout the whole process. We’ll talk to you about all the treatment options available for your cat’s cancer and what each option might mean for their health.
Our main focus is always what’s best for your cat. We’ll also talk about the costs, what you can expect, any changes you might need to make to your cat’s lifestyle, and any possible side effects of the treatment. This way, you can make decisions knowing all the facts.
Treating cancer in cats can be different depending on where the tumor is and how far it’s progressed. Common treatments might include:
- Oral medication
- Chemotherapy given through a vein
- Radiation therapy
- Surgery to remove or reduce the tumor
- Additional pain management strategies
Sources
Cancer In Cats: Types, Symptoms And Treatments
Cancer in Cats: Symptoms and Treatment
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