Fighting Feline Cancer

March 1st, 2019

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Hearing that your furry friend has cancer can be devastating news to loving pet parents. Although cancer doesn’t occur in cats as commonly as in dogs, it still affects many of our feline companions. Cats tend to mask illness, making it harder to detect that anything is off, often leading to later diagnosis and complex, costly treatments down the road.

Symptoms of Feline Cancer     

Fighting feline cancer begins with paying attention to symptoms of the disease while it is still in the early stages. It may be tricky to discover feline cancer because cats hide disease well.

Symptoms of cancer include lumps that change in shape or size, sores that do not heal, a rough coat, lethargy, changes in bowel or bladder habits, and difficulty swallowing. Your kitty may find it difficult to urinate or defecate or may have unexplained bleeding or discharge. Some cats experience loss of appetite or may vomit or diarrhea. Symptoms of feline cancer also include chronic weight loss, difficulty breathing, stiffness, or oral odor.

If you notice any of these symptoms, make sure to contact us at All About Cats Veterinary Hospital immediately. We will perform diagnostic tests to determine whether cancer is present. Early diagnosis is your furry friend’s best chance for successful treatment.

Preventing Feline Cancer

Spaying your female kitty will drastically reduce the chance of developing mammary cancer. Cat owners are advised to prevent the development of feline leukemia through vaccination or ensuring their new furr-ever friend hasn't been exposed to feline leukemia. This will decrease the likelihood of developing a form of cancer known as lymphoma.

Some causes of some forms of feline cancers are unknown, so the best prevention is early detection to allow for the best outcomes.  

Treatments for Feline Cancer

We believe that communication with you throughout the diagnosis and treatment process is essential. We will make sure to discuss all treatment options for your precious pet and the possible outcomes, with our primary concerns being the well being and comfort of your cat. We will also discuss any expected lifestyle changes, possible side effects, and the costs of treatment. This will allow you to make informed decisions.

Once feline cancer is diagnosed, surgery is often an option to remove lumps or bumps. Chemotherapy is the most common treatment to manage lymphomas or to target aggressive tumors that have spread to the lymph nodes or other organs. If the tumors cannot be removed, we may recommend radiation therapy. 

We Are Here for You

If you have any concerns about your cat's health, please contact us immediately at All About Cats Veterinary Hospital in the Kirkland area. We are committed to providing you and your feline friend with compassionate, comprehensive care and support services. We understand that feline cancer is the last thing you want to deal with. We are here to help you and your kitty navigate the journey through offering the best veterinary care available. We are always here for you and your furry family member.