Cancer isn’t as common in cats as it is in dogs, but it can still affect a number of felines. Just like cancer in humans, cancer in cats is serious. Sometimes, this illness can be fatal. If your feline has been diagnosed with cat cancer, you will want to determine what form of cancer your cat has and talk to your vet to explore possible cures. Half as many cats come down with cancer as dogs. The most common cat cancer is lymphoma. which is associated with the feline Leukemia virus. There is a vaccine for feline leukemia that may reduce your cat’s chances of contracting the illness, but even the vaccination doesn’t eliminate all cases.
Another common cat cancer is oral squamous carcinoma. This is similar to the cancer that humans can acquire, and starts with a tumor called a fibrosarcoma. This tumor develops in the muscles or soft tissues of the body. Some injections and medications may be able to help a cat with this illness, and some operations can remove the cancerous tumor and rid the body of the illness. Less common cat cancers are tumors in the lungs, brain, liver, or nose. When cats are not spayed, they can sometimes contract a mammary tumor as well. When your cat has cancer, it may not be evident right away. Chances are that you may feel a lump or a bump that is a hidden tumor on your cat’s body. Some cats will vomit, or become lethargic as their cancer develops.
If your cat refuses to eat or has a rough coat, then these may be clues that he or she is ill. As well, any time that a cat loses its energy and becomes dull it may be because of a dangerous disease like cancer. Because cats can’t communicate, you will need to look at his or her behaviors to determine whether or not the cat is ill. If you think your cat has cancer, you will want to take him or her to a trusted veterinarian for a biopsy. If the biopsy does not give definite results, you may need to take your cat in for more extensive testing.
If it is discovered that your cat has cancer, then you will want to decide whether or not you are willing to pay for the treatments that might be necessary. Tumors may need to be removed through surgery, or the vet may suggest that you submit your cat to chemotherapy treatments. Sometimes it may be best to let your cat undergo radiation therapy to diminish the tumor. This is most helpful if your pet has a tumor in the brain where it would be risky to operate.
Currently, veterinarians are seeing advancements in feline cancer treatments, and have been able to cure many beloved pets of their illnesses. Admittedly, the advanced treatments are often very expensive, but may be worth it if you can save your beloved cat’s life. Initial diagnostic testing will probably run around $500 to $1,000, and surgery can cost from $800 to $2,000 depending on the extent of the surgery. Radiation can peak at about $6,000 when it is issued by a specialist. The survival rate for cats with cancer normally hovers around 50 percent. Your vet will be able to give you an accurate estimate percentage concerning your cat’s survival rate.
If you want to prevent your cats from getting cancer, one of the best ways to help is through spaying your female felines. This will drastically reduce her chance of getting mammary cancer. As well, you can percent feline leukemia by making sure you get your cat’ the proper vaccinations. By being careful with your cat, you may be able to reduce the risk of leukemia and other cancers and help your cat to live a long and health life. If you have more questions about cat cancer, then talk to a local vet today!