The essentials
- Cancer is common in cats — Many different types of cancer can affect cats, and each has unique symptoms and treatment options.
- Cats are masters at hiding illness — Be vigilant for even subtle changes in your cat’s health, such as weight loss, lethargy, persistent vomiting and diarrhea, lumps and bumps, or changes in eating habits.
- Veterinary support is essential — Open communication with your vet is crucial for navigating a cancer diagnosis, exploring treatment options, and ensuring your cat’s well-being throughout the journey.
Our feline friends hold a special place in our hearts. These independent and charming creatures also have a natural instinct to hide signs of illness or pain. This can make it challenging to detect health issues, including cancer, until it’s often quite advanced.
Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. It can feel devastating and overwhelming if your furry family member is diagnosed with cancer. However, recognizing the symptoms is crucial, as early diagnosis and treatment generally lead to better outcomes. In this article, we will shed light on some of the most common types of cancers seen in cats and the warning signs that all pet parents should watch for.
Symptoms of cancer in cats
There are many types of cancer, and any part of a cat’s body can be affected. Cancer symptoms are often nonspecific and vary significantly depending on the type and stage (how large it is and whether it has spread to other body parts). Keep in mind that many other less serious medical conditions can cause similar symptoms. While not every symptom on this list indicates cancer, it’s still essential to consult your veterinarian if you notice any of the following:
Unexplained weight loss
This is one of the most common signs of illness in cats, including cancer. If your cat is losing weight without a change in diet or exercise, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian. In severe cases, this can lead to a condition called cachexia , a complex metabolic syndrome characterized by muscle wasting and unintentional weight loss despite adequate food intake. Cancer cells release certain substances that interfere with the body’s normal metabolism, leading to increased energy expenditure and decreased appetite. This results in a cat burning more calories than they consume, even if they’re eating the same amount of food as before.
Loss of appetite or changes in eating habits
If your cat suddenly loses interest in food, has trouble eating or swallowing, or starts eating less than usual, it could be a red flag.
Lethargy or weakness
A sudden decrease in energy levels, reluctance to play, or general weakness can be a sign of various cancers.
Changes in urination or defecation
Increased or decreased frequency, difficulty urinating or defecating, blood in the urine or stool, or straining to go to the bathroom can indicate bladder or intestinal cancer or an associated blockage.
🚨 A cat straining to urinate is always a medical emergency.
Lumps and bumps
Any new or changing lump or bump on your cat’s body should be examined by a veterinarian. There are many possible causes, ranging from a benign fatty mass or cyst to a more aggressive form of cancer. If you notice a lump in a place where your cat has received a vaccine, it’s also important to consult your vet.
Non-healing wounds
Non-healing wounds, ulcers, or sores on the skin could indicate cancer. Scabs or scaly skin around the face and ears of white cats are particularly concerning.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Unexplained bleeding or discharge
Bleeding or discharge from the nose, mouth, genitals, or other body orifices can be signs of cancer.
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin, eyes, or gums)
This can be a direct sign of liver disease or cancer. It could also be secondary to hepatic lipidosis, a type of liver failure in cats who stop eating.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Diarrhea or vomiting
Persistent or unexplained vomiting and diarrhea, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss, could indicate cancer in the digestive system or elsewhere.
Abdominal distension or bloating
An enlarged abdomen may indicate a tumor in the liver or spleen or fluid buildup in the abdomen as a result of another type of cancer.
Bad breath or other mouth abnormalities
Persistent bad breath, difficulty eating, swelling in the mouth, or excessive drooling can be a sign of oral cancer.
Breathing difficulties
Labored breathing, coughing, wheezing, or open-mouth breathing (panting) could be signs of lung cancer, a tumor in the respiratory system, or a heart condition. A normal respiratory rate in a sleeping or resting cat should be less than 30 breaths per minute .
Lameness or stiffness
Persistent limping, stiffness, swelling, or difficulty jumping could indicate bone cancer or a tumor affecting the nerves or muscles.
Neurological signs
Seizures, disorientation, loss of balance, or changes in behavior can indicate brain tumors.
Behavior changes
Cats are unique individuals. You know your furry family member better than anyone, so if you notice any sudden changes in their behavior, such as increased hiding, aggression, disinterest in play or interactions, or even clinginess, it could be a sign that something is up.
Unkempt or matted fur
Cats are normally fastidious groomers. A sudden decline in grooming habits, leading to unkempt or matted fur, can be a sign of discomfort or illness, including cancer.
⚠️ The early signs of cancer can be nonspecific and easily missed, especially in cats. Some cancers may only cause obvious signs once they are more advanced. If you notice any of these signs in your cat, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian. Early detection and treatment significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.
Cancer risk factors in cats
Unfortunately, the exact cause of cancer in cats is often unknown. However, several risk factors may be involved, ranging from lifestyle factors such as obesity to carcinogen exposure. Certain breeds, such as Siamese and oriental breeds, may have a higher predisposition to specific types of cancer. Additionally, viral infections like Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) significantly increase the likelihood of lymphoma and other cancers.
Approximately one in five cats will develop cancer in their lifetime. This risk significantly increases with age due to the natural accumulation of genetic mutations over time.
Common cancers in cats
If your cat has been diagnosed with cancer, you likely feel scared and overwhelmed. Here, we’ll take a brief look at a few of the most common types of cancer that can affect our furry family members.
Lymphoma
One of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in cats, lymphoma affects lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell found in the lymphatic system and critical for immune response. Lymphoma can take several forms, but gastrointestinal lymphoma, affecting the small intestine, is the most common in cats. Symptoms often include vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, lethargy, and decreased appetite. Since many other medical issues may also cause these symptoms, your vet may need to do extensive testing, including intestinal biopsies, to make this diagnosis. GI lymphoma typically responds very well to chemotherapy, with over 90% of cats achieving remission.
Mammary (breast) cancer
Mammary tumors are relatively common in female cats, especially those who aren’t spayed. They usually present as a firm bump or nodule around a nipple or in your cat’s mammary chain. Unfortunately, approximately 90% of mammary masses in cats are malignant and can potentially spread to other parts of the body. Spaying is an important way to decrease your cat’s risk of mammary cancer. Early detection is also crucial, as surgical removal of the tumor before it spreads is often the most effective treatment, sometimes followed by chemotherapy.
Skin cancer (squamous cell carcinoma)
This type of cancer affects the squamous cells, which are the flat cells that make up the outer layer of the skin. It is more common in white cats and those with prolonged sun exposure. Squamous cell carcinoma often appears as raised, crusted sores or lesions on the ears, face, and nose. It can also affect the mouth. Treatment usually involves surgical removal of the tumor. The prognosis is generally good if detected early. However, if left undiagnosed and untreated, it can be fatal.
Mast cell tumors
These tumors arise from mast cells, which are immune system cells involved in allergic reactions. Mast cell tumors can occur anywhere on or in the body but are typically found on the skin, spleen, or intestines. Symptoms can vary depending on the tumor’s location, but they may include a noticeable skin growth, vomiting, diarrhea (with fresh or digested blood), and abdominal pain. Treatment may involve surgical removal, chemotherapy, radiation, and supportive care. The prognosis varies depending on the tumor’s grade and location.
Diagnosis and treatment of cancer in cats
Diagnosing cancer in cats begins with a thorough medical history and nose-to-tail physical exam, during which your veterinarian will check for any lumps or swollen lymph nodes and evaluate your cat’s overall health. If a suspicious mass is detected, your vet will perform a cytology (aspiration of cells using a needle) or biopsy (removal of a tissue sample) to confirm the presence of cancer and identify its specific type and grade.
Your veterinarian will also recommend tests, such as bloodwork, X-rays, and ultrasound, to determine if cancer is present and has metastasized (spread to other parts of the body). In some cases, more advanced imaging techniques like CT scans or MRIs may be necessary. If cancer is confirmed, your veterinarian might refer you to a specialist in feline oncology for further consultation and treatment planning.
Treatment options for feline cancer vary depending on the type and stage of the disease, the cat’s overall health, and owner preferences. Common treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and palliative care. While a cancer diagnosis can be devastating and overwhelming, it’s important to remember that many cats respond well to treatment and can enjoy a good quality of life for a long time.
Cancer diagnosis and treatment for your cat can be costly, so it’s important to have a plan for these unexpected expenses, such as pet insurance or an emergency fund.
Witnessing your feline companion grapple with cancer can be a heart-wrenching experience. While the fight against cancer can be challenging and overwhelming, early detection and intervention offer the best chance for a positive outcome. Some cancers are highly treatable and can even be cured, while others may require ongoing management to control symptoms and maintain quality of life.
Remember, you are not alone in this journey. By remaining vigilant and seeking prompt veterinary care, we can navigate this difficult path together and ensure our cats receive the care and comfort they deserve.
Frequently asked questions
How long do cats usually live with cancer?
Life expectancy will depend on many factors, such as the type of cancer, the stage (how large it is and if it has spread to other parts of the body), any other underlying health conditions, and treatment options. Some cats may live for years with cancer, while others may have much less time.
Is it worth putting a cat through cancer treatment?
This is a very personal choice, but your veterinarian can help guide you. Factors to consider include the type and stage of cancer, the cost of treatment, and your cat’s quality of life.
Does cat cancer show up in blood work?
Some types of cancer can cause changes in bloodwork, such as significantly elevated levels of white blood cells. In general, though, blood tests cannot diagnose cancer. But they still provide valuable information about your cat’s overall health and organ function.
How to comfort a cat with cancer at home?
Comforting a cat with cancer at home involves providing them with a supportive and loving environment. Give pain medication or other treatments as prescribed by your veterinarian, offer a nutritious and easily digestible diet, and create a peaceful spot for your feline friend to rest undisturbed. Handle them with gentleness and avoid activities that might cause pain or stress. Spend quality time together and follow their cues, keeping in mind their quality of life.
What is the average age of cats with cancer?
Cancer is most common in cats over 10 years of age. However, some types of cancer, such as lymphoma, can also occur in younger cats.
Can cancer be prevented?
Unfortunately, as the cause is often unknown, cancer is difficult to prevent. Spaying and neutering your cat at a young age can reduce the risk of mammary cancer and prevent testicular cancer. You should also try to avoid exposure to carcinogens, such as secondhand smoke. If you have a kitten or an outdoor cat, it is recommended that they be vaccinated for FeLV. Lastly, keeping up with routine veterinary care is the best thing you can do for your cat’s health.
