Does my pet have cancer?
By Dr. Ellen Friedman
Our companion pets live safer, healthier and longer lives now more than ever before. Along with longevity can sometimes come the increasing risk of cancer, often an old-age disease. What do you need to look for to protect your pet?
Although cancer can strike different tissues and organs (and this can be different in dogs and cats), there are some common signs and warnings that you can watch for. None of these need induce panic; just be sure to have your veterinarian check your pet if you are concerned.
A lump that grows or changes. If a lump appears rapidly, looks very red or angry, oozes or gets larger and then smaller, your vet is probably going to need to biopsy and/or remove this mass.
Unexplained weight loss. If your pet is on a weight-loss diet and succeeds, that's great. If she loses weight otherwise, or eats poorly, this may be a sign that should cause concern.
Cough. Any cough that persists or does not resolve with medical treatment can represent a problem. Your vet will want chest x-rays.
Limping that does not resolve. Bone cancer in large dog breeds can start out with a limp. Many other diseases do, too: Lyme, arthritis and so on. X-rays are probably in order, along with Lyme testing when appropriate.
Enlarged lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy). While large lymph nodes, especially when present in various sites over the body, can occur in infectious diseases, they can also be seen in lymphoma. Lab work can better define the situation.
Anemia. Pale gums can be a sign of kidney disease, tick-carried diseases such as Lyme and ehrlichia, or certain types of cancer. Blood in the urine can also be a warning sign. Be sure to visit your vet.
Difficulty chewing or swallowing. Of course, this can be a problem with teeth, or even kidney issues. But an oral exam, possibly under sedation, is called for in this case.
Vomiting or diarrhea. Changes in bowel habits and digestive situations all can be warnings of ill health.
While any or all of the above signs and symptoms can be a cause for justified concern, your veterinarian's experience and some well-aimed laboratory tests can give you clear answers to the question, "Is my pet ill?" Don't hesitate to seek professional help.
