No one wants to think that their beloved kitty
or precious pup might have cancer—but many pet owners wish that they had
noticed the signs earlier. As the number one disease-related killer of cats and
dogs, cancer is not something to be underestimated. The more quickly it is
found and identified, the better a chance there is of a successful
surgical treatment that can save your pet’s life.
While an annual veterinary check-up is the best
way to diagnose any symptoms, looking out for these early warning signs can’t
hurt. Canine and feline cancer can, unfortunately, metastasize at a much faster
rate than it does in humans, so it is best to be proactive and attentive,
especially with older animals. If you notice any of these warning signs of
cancer in dogs and cats, schedule an
appointment with us as soon as possible.
Unusual Odors
If you’re a pet owner, you already know that bad
smells are simply a part of the furry, cuddly package. However, an unusually
foul smell that persists in spite of washing may indicate a tumor, especially
if it emanates from the mouth, nose, or rectal area.
Bumps and Lumps
Bumps and lumps beneath a pet’s skin should not
be ignored. A lump which persists over time, or which seems to be growing,
should be examined by a licensed veterinarian as soon as possible.
Unusual Weight Loss or Appetite Change
Unless he or she has been placed on a diet plan,
your pet’s weight should remain relatively consistent. If the animal has
suddenly lost interest in food which he or she previously enjoyed, illness is a
strong possibility. Oral tumors can cause difficulty when the animal is eating and/or swallowing.
Behavioral Changes
Many pet owners fail to spot cancer in aging
dogs and cats because they assume that the animal is simply “slowing down” due
to its age. However, sudden torpor or lethargy in an animal can actually be a
sign that it is experiencing pain. Sudden aggression in a previously
well-tempered pet or sudden antisocial behavior can also be signs of cancer or
illness. Be sure to also pay attention to changes in walking, eating, playing,
and urinating.
Physical symptoms of cancer in pets
There are many physical symptoms that can
indicate cancer in dogs and cats. Coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath,
limping, pale gums, and open sores that are not healing are all symptoms of pet
cancer to be on the lookout for.
A Veterinarian You Can Trust
If you have noticed any of
these signs in your dog or cat, the best thing to do is to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian as
soon as possible. Bregman Veterinary Group’s qualified vets have the
experience and skill to identify cancer in an animal as quickly as possible. If
you have any questions or concerns about your animal, give us a call today.
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