Cancer in Pets (Dogs and Cats)

Sep 7, 2010
Diane Evans

Dogs and cats are both susceptible to cancer. - Flickr

Cancer is usually identified as a tumor, an uncontrolled, abnormal growth of cells or tissues, which may be called a neoplasia in medical terminology.

This disease accounts for almost half the deaths of pets over ten years of age, and dogs are more likely to develop the disease than cats. Cancer is not preventable since the causes are not known. Regular vet check-ups, early detection and treatment are the best ways to protect your pet.

Two Types of Cancer Growths

There are two kinds of cancerous tumors: benign and malignant. A benign growth or mass does not grow aggressively and does not invade the surrounding body tissues. It won't spread throughout the body. Usually benign growths are circular or oval and are often encapsulated. Malignant tumors are fibrous and grow rapidly and unevenly, breaking off cells into the blood stream which spreads or metastasizes the cancer cells throughout the animal's body.

Diagnosis

The veterinarian usually takes a biopsy to verify the cancer suspicion, but the pet's health history is the primary source of information. The vet may also take X-Rays, blood tests and ultrasound exams to confirm the diagnosis. The biopsy will indicate whether the tumor is benign or malignant. Additional biopsies of lymph nodes and other tissues may be required in order to determine how far a malignant cancer has spread.

Types of Cancer in Pets

Skin cancer is common in older dogs just as it is in humans. However it occurs more rarely in cats. However skin cancers in cats are usually malignant, and in dogs, they are benign.

Mammary gland or breast cancer is 50% in dogs and 85% in cats likely to be malignant. You can reduce your female pet's chances of getting this form of cancer by spaying her before she's reaches a year old.

Testicular cancer is rarely found in cats and more common in dogs that have not been neutered. Neutering your pet can save its life.

Abdominal tumors are common in cats and dogs but they are hard to diagnose. Abdominal swelling or weight loss are usually the indicators.

Bone cancer or osteosarcoma are often seen in large breed dogs older than seven years, and the disease rarely occurs in cats. The most common sites are the leg bones, especially near the joints. Signs of this cancer include lameness, pain, a sore that won't heal with pus and a bad odor, and swelling in the affected area.

Treatment

The treatment varies according to the individual but it usually includes a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, cryosurgery (freezing), immunotherapy, or hyperthermia (heating.) Pain management is a most important part of the treatment.

You may consider euthanasia with some cancers. But before making the decision for treatment or euthanasia, explore the options with your veterinarian and your family.