Bringing Awareness About Cancer in Our Pets

Cancer in Companion Animals

                Cancer is a very scary word that no one every wants to hear as a diagnosis.  There are many, many types of cancer and we see cases nearly every day at Patton Veterinary Hospital.  Some forms are mild and may be cured with surgery. Others are aggressive and devastating even with treatment.  November is actually the official cancer awareness month for pets, but we wanted to raise awareness early as many of the Patton staff will be participating in a local 5K run called Gulliver’s Run that serves as a fundraiser to aid research for canine cancer. 

                What signs do pets with cancer exhibit?  Symptoms of cancer may vary depending on where the cancer or tumor is located.  In fact, some pets may not exhibit any symptoms.  However, some things you may notice are unexplained weight loss, lumps or bumps, changes in appetite, chronic vomiting, coughing or difficulty breathing, and lethargy/decreased activity. 

                Many people ask if evidence of cancer will show up in a blood test.  There are very few specific blood tests for cancer, but, sometimes changes in red or white blood cells or increased liver or a high calcium level may indicate some types of cancer.  Radiographs or ultrasound may be more helpful in diagnosing cancer in pets.

                Many cancers can be treated and the goal is to balance gaining remission with the pet feeling good and having good quality of life.  Many of us think of chemotherapy as causing hair loss, nausea and weakness.  The truth is our pets tolerate chemotherapy much better than we humans do.  And, while serious side effects can occur, they are far less common than they are in people.  Some forms of cancer also respond to surgery, radiation or other treatment modalities.  There are even some injections or “vaccines” that are now being used to treat certain forms of cancer. 

                Though a few types of cancer such as lymphoma can occur in young animals, cancer is most common in older pets, and may be more prevalent today than in the past primarily because we are taking better care of our pets and they are living longer.  Genetics and heredity also play a role as certain breeds and family lines may have a higher incidence of cancer.  Many studies are underway, and we still have a lot to learn about cancer in pets, but treatments have changed and improved over the years and cancer research benefits pets as well people as knowledge and technology is often shared among the veterinary and medical fields.

                The best way to detect problems with your pet, including cancer, is to have regular wellness exams and screening tests.  This is especially important as your pet ages.  It is also helpful to have any lumps checked by your veterinarian as early detection and removal of cancerous masses can go a long way to extending your pet’s life and sometimes even curing cancer. 

Many research opportunities exist today for canine and feline cancer.  One organization striving to extend awareness and knowledge about canine cancer is Gulliver’s Run.  Gulliver’s Run will be held November 6^th at Gifford Pinchot State Park and all proceeds go to the National Canine Cancer Foundation.  If anyone wants to contribute to the cause by donating to the Patton team or to join us at the race, please check the Events Page on our website, call our office for more information on how to participate or visit www.RunAgainstCanineCancer.org.

                This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving York, Red Lion and the surrounding communities.