|
Recently
you noticed an unusual growth inside your pet's
ear. When your veterinarian explains that it is
a tumor, you feel a shiver go down your spine. Could
your animal companion have cancer?
Dog & Cat Cancer Tumor Growth
Cancer
is marked by an uncontrolled and abnormal growth
of cells. It can affect just about any part or system
of a dog or cat's body. This illness may first show
up in a mass of tissue known as a tumor. Animal
companions can get tumors in many places-inside
their mouth or larynx, for example, or on their
reproductive organs.
But
not all tumors are serious threats to your pet's
health. Those that do not spread to surrounding
tissue are called benign tumors. These kinds of
tumors are often removed by a veterinarian, as they
can still do damage if they rupture, hemorrhage
or place pressure on nearby tissues or organs.
Cat & Dog Cancer Signs
A
tumor that spreads into surrounding organs and structures
is said to be malignant. These kinds of tumors are
very serious, especially if cancerous cells enter
an animal's blood or lymph system. If you notice
any unusual growth on your pet, seek professional
help immediately, Signs of cancer may also include
weakness, loss of weight or appetite, vomiting and
diarrhea. Some animal companions do not exhibit
any symptoms at all in the earliest stages of cancer.
Your veterinarian may use x-rays, ultrasound, blood
tests or perform a biopsy to determine the nature
of your pet's illness.
Keep
in mind that if your veterinarian makes a positive
diagnosis of cancer, this not a death sentence for
your pet. Medical advances have been made in the
treatment, and cure, of cancer, including chemotherapy,
radiation therapy and surgery. If a dog or cat's
cancer cannot be cured, there are many options owners
can take to provide a better quality of life for
their pet. And nutrition therapy and lots of tender
loving care can go a long way,too, to make a dog
or cat feel more comfortable.
How to Prevent Cat & Dog Cancer
Middle-aged
and older animals are more likely to get cancer,
but there are some steps you can take to prevent
your pet from developing certain forms of this disease.
Female dogs and cats spayed before they reach sexual
maturity at 6 to 9 months have one-seventh the risk
of an intact female of developing breast cancer.
Neutering also prevents testicular cancer in male
animal companions, And ANIMED recommends regular
vaccinations to protect your cat against feline
leukemia, a fatal, painful disease that causes cancer
of the white blood cells and lymph system.
|
