How to Identify the Clinical Signs of Cancer in Your Pet
In the United States, cancer is the number one disease-related cause of death for domesticated dogs and cats. Treatment of cancer can be financially and emotionally draining, and if it's not caught early, these hardships may leave us feeling hopeless.
This month is National Pet Cancer Awareness Month, and BAH wants to help pet owners gain a better understanding of the different types of cancer that may affect your pets.
Here is some information to help you diagnose cancer in your pet as early as possible.
The Most Common Types of Cancer in Pets
In regards to the different types of cancer a dog or cat can develop, skin cancer, or Malignant Skin Neoplasia, is the most common.
Other common types of cancers in pets include (listed by prevalence):
• Lymphoma – Life learn Document on file
• Splenic (Spleen) Cancer
• Bone or Joint Cancer
• Hepatic (Liver) Cancer
• Thoracic (Chest) Cancer
• Bladder Cancer
• Anal Sac Cancer
• Oral Cancer
• Brain or Spinal Cord Cancer
Clinical Signs of Cancer in Our Pets
Similar to human cases of cancer, there will be a better prognosis for your pet if the disease is diagnosed early. That being the case, it is important for you to know what signs to look for.
Here are some common signs of cancer:
- Suspicious lumps that grow or change color
- Sores that never seem to heal
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Vomiting and/or diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Bleeding or other discharge from any body opening
- Severe lethargy
- Unusually strong odors coming from a pet
If you notice one or more of the above signs in your pet, then you should take them to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Your pet will have a better chance at beating cancer if they are diagnosed and treated as early as possible.
About Morris Animal Foundation
Morris Animal Foundation was originally founded in 1948 by Dr. Mark L Morris Sr.
Dr. Morris started out as a private practice Veterinarian with a drive to improve the lives of animals. As conveyed on their website, "today, Morris Animal Foundation remains one of the largest and most highly respected animal health organizations in the world. Since its creation, the Foundation has invested more than $103 million towards 2,500+ studies that have led to significant breakthroughs in diagnostics, treatments, preventions and cures benefitting companion animals, horses, and wildlife worldwide."
Just like Morris Animal Foundation, Bogue Animal Hospital is dedicated to improving the lives of animals through care and up to date treatments. We contribute to MAF by making a $10 donation in remembrance of our beloved pet who has left us.
With MAF's help, more research than ever is being done to eradicate common diseases like cancer, diabetes and more.
Check out the Morris Animal Foundation website and contribute to the health of our pets!
For more information on the clinical signs of cancer, please give us a call at (316) 722-1085.