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Cats with Cancer:

Whether it’s with humans, dogs, or cats, there’s no doubt the word “cancer” can make you cringe. But, if you hear the word cat cancer from your veterinarian, it’s not always the inevitable, a death sentence.  With proper precautions and prevention, once detected, the diagnosis of cat cancer is not necessarily all doom and gloom.

The vigilant pet owner needs to be aware that cat cancer begins without visible, outward symptoms.  So, it’s important for pet owners, especially those who own both dogs and cats, to keep a vigilant eye since visible symptoms of cat cancer may not always be present.

Unlike other diseases, there won’t be a sudden fever or spell of vomiting to alert you to the illness.  Annual checkups are key so your veterinarian can continuously monitor for early detection of tumors.  Owners in particular to be observant of signs for cat cancer should frequently be aware of any abnormal swellings that continue to grow, especially in the nymph nodes, sores which do not heal, offensive odor, difficulty eating or swallowing or breathing, or loss of energy.  Another sign of detecting cat cancer is that your cat is eating yet losing weight, there is a discharge or bleeding from any opening, and

And, keep in mind, a tumor – basically any lump or bump which could even be considered a wart - may not always be cat cancer.  It could be a growth that doesn’t swell.  Cat cancers in particular can be divided into three parts; the first being a growth outside the skin.  There’s also the type that begin in connective muscles or tissues, and then lymphomas that invade the lymph nodes.

Cat cancer basically occurs when cell-dividing go askew.  Cause of the malfunctions whether they’re inherited or acquired, may affect different types of cats in different ways.   Some vets believe the environment and diet play a huge impact on the onset of cat cancer; whether it’s smog, or chemicals on lawns, or an unhealthy diet.  Prevention is key, as in the instance with a healthy cat food diet; be sure to feed your cat nothing but healthy food such as raw, organic foods. 

In addition, body type is factored into certain types of cat cancers.  Large cats are more prone to bone cancer; this is associated with stress on weight-bearing limbs.   

As for the good news?  Treatment and cure of cat cancers is proceeding and advancing.  As with humans, early detection of symptoms through technology and a range of treatments including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, improved surgical techniques, and a special diet for the cat are not uncommon.  Plus, as its increasing in prevalence primarily in older cat, the good news is that cats are living longer lives in general thanks to proper nutrition and exercise.  

Overall, proper detection and prevention are essential for identifying symptoms and minimizing or obliterating the onset of cat cancer.  One way to contribute to your cat’s overall health is to be aware of any abnormal growths/tumors is to ensure your cat has an annual check up at the veterinarian.  At The Dog Bowl, nothing is more important than your pets’ health and well being.  For more information about cat cancer contact your vet.  The Dog Bowl offers good nutrition for your cat - click here to see what we offer!