MAY IS PET CANCER AWARENESS MONTHHere Are 10

Warning Signs of Cancer in Pets

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1. Lumps and BumpsThese are the easiest forms of cancer to recognize since they are virtually right before your eyes. Never assume a skin mass is “just another fatty tumor.” Have

each skin mass checked by your veterinarian and keep a body map of the lumps so you know when a new lump occurs. Skin masses in cats are more likely to be

malignant than those in dogs.

These skin lumps are the most common form of canine skin cancer – mast cell tumors.

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2. Abnormal OdorsDogs and cats should not have bad breath. Serious bad breath is

typically caused by periodontal disease or a tumor in the mouth. Pets with bad breath need an immediate veterinary evaluation to detect and

treat oral cancer early.

This pigmented mass was diagnosed as an oral melanoma.

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3. Abnormal DischargeIncreased discharge from the eyes, nose or ears may be a sign of a tumor in those organs. This cat has lymphoma in her nose, which is

causing increased discharge from the right eye.

At The AMC, we find our CT scanner very useful for the diagnosis of nasal tumors.

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4. Non-Healing WoundsEarly detection allows surgical removal, which can prolong survival and

improve quality of life.

This “sore” on the side of a cat that won’t go away is an example of feline breast cancer.

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5. Weight Loss Because obesity is such a common problem in dogs and cats today,

many pet owners are thrilled when they notice their pet has lost weight.

Keep in mind, if you do not have your pet on a diet, it is not likely to lose weight. Be sure to have unexplained weight loss checked out by your veterinarian.

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6. Change in AppetiteBoth an increase and a decrease in appetite can be a signal for

cancer in your dog or cat. In a multi-pet household it is sometimes difficult to determine who is not eating since your healthy pet may eat

the leftovers of the pet with a decreased appetite.

Be sure to monitor the weight and body condition of each furry family member on a routine basis.

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7. Coughing or Difficulty BreathingCancer can impact your pet’s respirations in several different ways.

Masses or enlarged lymph nodes can block airflow. Lung tumors cause pets to cough, and tumors that cause fluid to accumulate around the lungs

increase the respiratory rate.

Any change in your pet’s normal breathing pattern or a reluctance to exercise should be discussed with your veterinarian.

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8. Lethargy and DepressionIf your pet seems uninterested in daily activities, is sleeping all the time or doesn’t feel up to his daily walk or play session, this might be a big indicator of a serious illness, including cancer. A trip to the veterinarian

for a nose to tail evaluation is in order.

9. Changes in Bathroom HabitsExcessive water drinking, blood in the urine, straining to urinate or defecate, constant diarrhea, or blood in the stool are all potential

signs of cancer in your dog or cat.

If your pet is showing these clinical signs, collecting urine and fecal samples for the trip to your veterinarian will help speed the diagnostic evaluation along.

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10. Evidence of PainMany older dogs limp because of painful arthritis, but dogs can also limp due to

bone cancer. Limping dogs need to be examined by their veterinarian and x-rays are very useful to identify bone cancer like osteosarcoma that we see in

this Irish Setter.

Most important of all!

REMEMBER: If you think your pet has any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek out a veterinary

cancer specialist’s opinion. Early detection can save your pet’s life!

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