BRITISH VETERINARY ONCOLOGY STUDY GROUP

CANCER IN DOGS AND CATS

Thanks to modern medicine and vaccines dogs and cats are living longer and as a result they are tending to develop those diseases associated with older age - cancer is one of these. It has been estimated that 1 in 4 dogs or 1 in 6 cats will develop a tumour during its life and that almost 50 percent of dogs over 10 years old will die of a cancer-related problems.

As in people, tumours in dogs and cats can be treat and in many cases they can be cured. The success of treatment depends on several factors:

· the type of tumour
· how early the tumour is when it is found
· the treatment used.

Although we cannot choose the tumour type, we can determine the type of treatment and when we start treatment. Ideally the earlier a tumour is detected then the earlier the treatment can be started and the better the chance for a cure. As owners, we can check our pets for signs. Remember that most pets with cancer are otherwise very well so a growing lump may be the only abnormality. In addition, from middle age regular annual health checks with your veterinary surgeon are advisable.

Ten Common Signs of Cancer in Small Animals
(NB These signs are not unique to cancer and may be due to another disease.)

1. Abnormal swellings or lumps that persist or continue to grow
2. Sores that do not heal
3. Loss of appetite
4. Weight loss
5. Bleeding or discharge from any body opening
6. Difficulty eating or swallowing
7. Offensive odour
8. Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina
9. Persistent lameness or stiffness
10. Difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating

Your veterinary surgeon will be able assess the problem. He may advise surgery or some other course of action. He may need to perform X-rays and a biopsy in the first place. He may also feel that referring you to a cancer specialist is important.

As with any disease, it is important that you seek veterinary advice as soon as possible, if after initial treatment the problem persists then further re-assessment may be required.

+ If you have any further questions about cancer in pet you should speak to your veterinary surgeon who will be able to discuss this with you more fully.