Signs of Canine & Feline Cancer: Do You Know the Warning Symptoms?
Lucy Postins
Common Signs of Cancer In Canines & Felines:
Difficulty eating or swallowing
Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow
Sores that do not heal
Weight loss and/or loss of appetite
Pet just not acting like himself; behavior changes
Bleeding or discharge from any body opening
Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating
Persistent lameness or stiffness
Hesitance to exercise or loss of stamina
Many of the above signs are also seen in pets with noncancerous conditions. Regardless, these are signs your pet has some type of health condition and a visit to your veterinarian is warranted. Any new lump or growth on your pet should always be checked by the veterinarian. Don't put off having even the smallest growth examined as many seemingly "benign" skin growths can be cancer. 60% of skin growths found on cats are cancerous.
Depending upon the timing of bringing your pet in, more or less will be able to be done to help the pet. Initially the veterinarian will recommend laboratory tests such as bloodwork, urine analysis and XRAYS. Most of the time, this will provide some preliminary insight to the veterinarian, but a biopsy is generally required in order to definitively diagnoses the presence of cancer and the type of cancer.
Once diagnosed, it's recommended that you see a veterinary oncologist so that you understand your treatment options, even if you don't wish to pursue chemotherapy or radiation. Holistic care can greatly help pets with cancer. Using a wholesome, nutritious diet combined with natural supplements can improve the quality of the pet’s life and may extend their longevity.
Written by Susan Blake Davis, Pet Nutritionist, www.AskAriel.com
Interested in seeing the impact of diet on pets with cancer? Read through our True Storieshere.
Lucy Postins
Lucy Postins is founder and Chief Integrity Officer at The Honest Kitchen. She is a companion animal nutritionist who started The Honest Kitchen in her kitchen in 2002. She is passionate about advanced nutrition and holistic health including complementary modalities such as herbalism and homeopathy. Considered an expert in her field, Lucy frequently writes articles for local and national media, conducts radio interviews and educational spots, and occasionally holds educational seminars for pet owners on the importance of good nutrition. She also recently authored Dog Obsessed, a guide to a happier, healthier life for the pup you love.
