Early veterinary intervention with cancer in cats is critical. Early diagnosis will help you and your veterinarian give the best treatment for your feline so they can live as long as possible.Understanding the different types of cancer in cats and knowing its symptoms is an essential part of being a proactive pet owner.Here are the lists of the feline cancers that are seen the most often:Common Types of Cancer in CatsSimilar to humans, there are many different types of cancer in cats that are classified according to the origin of the type of abnormal cell they contain.One of the most known cancers is ‘leukemia’, which affects the bone marrow, and ‘lymphoma’, which is caused by the growth of abnormal lymphocytes.There are an enormous variety of cancers that can affect cats. However, the following are the most commonly encountered cancers in cats you must know:1. LymphomaLymphoma is the most common and dangerous cancer that affects cats. This cancer usually affects older felines and most commonly occurs in the small intestines.Symptoms of Lymphoma CancerBased on the common cases, these are the symptoms of lymphoma in cats that you should know:
Weight loss (primary symptom)VomitingAnorexia (not eating)Diarrhea
TreatmentAccording to Dr. Joshua Lachowicz, DVM, DACVIM (Oncology), medical director at BluePearl Pet Hospital in Queens, New York, the best treatment for lymphoma cancer is chemotherapy.This treatment has higher possibilities for cats to have a great quality of life for years.2. Soft-Tissue SarcomasCats’ connective, muscular, or neurological tissues can become home to a variety of tumor types, together referred to as “soft-tissue sarcomas.”Pets with these tumors typically have them throughout their chest, back, sides, legs, and faces.Symptoms of Soft-Tissue SarcomasUsually, the symptoms of a soft-tissue sarcoma depend on its location. However, these are the predominant symptoms that are common occur in cats:A mass that you can feelLamenessVomitingHaving difficulty urinating
TreatmentAccording to Dr. Lachowicz, the progression of soft-tissue sarcomas takes weeks to months to develop.However, before the metastasis has not occurred yet, you must give the best treatment for your feline friend such as surgery and radiation therapy.3. Squamous Cell CarcinomaSquamous cell carcinomas is a type of malignant tumor that can occur in various areas, commonly showing up in the mouth.These tumors develop very quickly, so early detection and the right treatment is the key to decrease its growth.Symptoms of Squamous Cell CarcinomaBased on the common cases, these are the common symptoms of squamous cell carcinomas:Difficulty eatingDiscomfortHalitosisWeight lossDrooling or salivating excessivelySwelling of the upper or lower jawBleeding from the mouth
TreatmentWhen the existence of squamous cell carcinoma is confirmed through a biopsy, there are a few treatment options you can choose for your feline friends.During the first stages, the squamous cell carcinoma can be removed by radiation treatment.However in the more advanced stages, the treatment options become very limited and there is no guarantee it will successfully control the tumor.ConclusionCancer in cats is a complex and challenging condition, but advances in veterinary medicine have significantly improved the treatment options and quality of life for affected cats. Early detection and prompt treatment are key to managing this disease effectively. Cat owners are encouraged to be vigilant about their pet’s health and consult their veterinarian if they notice any concerning symptoms.
