November is National Pet Cancer Awareness Month

Cancer is a leading cause of death in cats and dogs. According to the Animal Cancer Foundation, cats are 13 times more likely to develop cancer than humans. The older the cat the more likely it is to get cancer, just like humans. Cats develop several of the same types of cancer that we do including lymphoma, leukemia, breast, and skin cancers. Treatment is available and can be effective if the cancer is detected early. The key is early diagnosis and treatment.

Cancer Warning  Signs

The American Veterinary Medical Association and the Veterinary Cancer Society lists the 10 most common signs and symptoms of cancer in pets:

1) Abnormal swelling that persists or continues to grow

2) Sores that do not heal

3) Weight loss

4) Loss of appetite

5) Bleeding or discharge from any body opening

6) Offensive odor

7) Difficulty eating or swallowing

8) Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina

9) Persistent lameness or stiffness

10) Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating 

This is just a partial list of the most common signs and symptoms of cancer in pets. If your pet has any of these symptoms or other symptoms that are troubling, please consult your veterinarian right away.

For more information, visit the Veterinary Cancer Society's website.