Cancer And Tumors- An Overview

One of the most dreaded diseases in cats is cancer and tumors. Some forms of cancer are life threatening. If they are not treated immediately, they can be fatal for your pet. So you should always be alert and watch out for any signs of cancer.

What Are Cancer And Tumors?

Cancer is caused when the cells of the body multiply in a haphazard and unrestrained manner. It is also called malignancy, tumor, sarcoma or neoplasia. Some types of cancer spread to other parts of the body when these cancerous cells enter the blood or lymph cells. Such forms of cancer are deemed to be malignant. Some tumors do not spread but instead permeate into the neighboring tissues and impair them. Cancer that is not malignant and does not damage the surrounding tissues is called benign.

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Cancer And Tumors?

There are many types of cancer and the symptoms vary accordingly. Cats with lung cancer find it difficult to breathe. They have rapid breath or severe panting. Those with bone cancer experience stiffness or lameness. Cats with oral cancer may salivate excessively, may find it difficult to eat and swallow or may bleed from the mouth. Those with nasal cancer may experience persistent discharge from the nose. Cats with cancer in their stomach and digestive system may lose their appetite, vomit or have diarrhea. Lumps and bumps on the body should be shown to the veterinary doctor especially if they are growing, bleeding, are painful, fused to the tissues of the skin beneath them or are uneven in shape. Sores on the ears and nose that do not heal can be indicative of skin cancer.

Other symptoms of cancer and tumors are:

• Persistent weight loss
• Offensive odor
• Lack of stamina or tiring easily
• Coughing
• Difficulty in urinating and defecating
• Bleeding or discharge from any body opening

If you do detect any one or more of these symptoms in your pet, consult a veterinarian immediately and get a definitive diagnosis.

What Is To Be Done If Cancer Is Diagnosed?

The first step to be taken once cancer is diagnosed is tumor staging. In this the veterinary oncologist determines how far the cancer has proceeded. The tests that will be conducted to determine the stage of cancer include blood tests, urinalysis, x-rays, tissue aspirate and biopsy.

After the tumor staging is completed, the vet will be able to tell you the best possible way to treat your pet. If the tumor has spread extensively then it may not be possible to get a complete cure. However, even then it is possible to alleviate the suffering by providing relief from the symptoms. It may also be possible to extend the lifetime of your pet. Where the cancer has not spread much, it is possible to cure it. Some of the cancer treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and immunotherapy.

Most importantly you should join a support group for reassurance that you are not alone in your anguish. Learning about the experiences of others whose pets are suffering from cancer and tumors will help you in taking correct decisions regarding the treatment of your beloved pet.