Cats and Cancer
Cancer is the third most common cause of death in cats. Like humans, there are many different types of cancers that occur in cats.
Older cats who have lived mostly outdoors and been exposed to the sun over many years are at greater risk, as are cats who have not been spayed before puberty.
Early detection means treatment is more likely to be successful so here are some symptoms to look out for:
- Sores that do not heal
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Lethargy
- Abnormal swelling
- Bleeding or discharge
- Difficulties eating, swallowing or breathing
- Lameness or stiffness
If your cat or kitten displays any of these symptoms you should take them to a vet for a check-up.
Like humans, the main treatments for cats with cancer are surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Other therapies such as acupuncture and homeopathy are used to help reduce stress.
Preventative measures include keeping your cat out of the sun as much as possible and generally minimising stress.
Keeping cats indoors at night not only helps safeguard our native animals but also reduces the risk of diseases such as feline leukemia virus, which can be transmitted through fighting with other cats.