The Signs of Cancer in Cats: What to Look For

The signs of cancer in cats

Just as with other chronic illnesses, we must be very careful when it comes to cancer in cats. We often don’t pay enough attention to the symptoms. Then, by the time we finally take our pets to the veterinarian, it’s too late.

Therefore, we recommend watching out for certain changes in your cat’s behavior or body. Don’t hesitate to consult with a specialist if anything seems out of the ordinary. The main signs that something is wrong with our felines are the following:

1. Weight loss

While it’s normal during certain states for cats to lose weight, sudden and unexplained weight loss is a reason for concern. Weight loss can be a sign of a gastrointestinal tumor. Also, be on alert if your cat doesn’t want to eat. Likewise, see your vet if your cat is eating normally, but is very thin just the same.

2. Listlessness

Cats are very active and curious creatures, even as they advance in age. If your feline’s activity level suddenly drops, you should take him to see a veterinarian. Some tumors can cause cats to become slower as a side effect. If your cat spends the entire day sleeping and loses interest in everything–including favorite toys–he may be ill.

3. Changes in your cat’s mouth

Oral cancer is another common type of cancer in cats that has signs we can’t ignore. If you notice any ulcers or lumps or bleeding of the lips or gums, seek veterinary attention. The same is true if you notice a strange smell coming from your cat’s mouth, or observe a color change in his gums. Many oral tumors can be devastating because they are difficult to detect before the disease is quite advanced.

4. Liquid discharge

With this point, we’re not talking about cats taking care of their needs outside of the litter box. Rather, we’re referring to another sign of cancer in cats. In this case, check to see if your pet has a swollen abdomen. Also, seek medical attention if your cat complains when you touch a certain part of his belly.

5. Nose bleeding

In cats, nose bleeding is not common. Therefore, if your cat has had a nosebleed, you should take him to see a veterinarian as soon as possible. This can be one of the signs of cancer in cats. This isn’t the case all the time though, as nose bleeding can also be the result of a foreign object in your pet’s nose. However, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

6. Your cat is depressed

No one knows pets like their owners, and you tell when your cat isn’t feeling well. Even though felines tend to be more reserved than dogs, they can tell us how they’re feeling just by looking at us. Pay attention to your cat’s facial expressions, if he spends hours laying around, doesn’t want to get up, or cries and moans. If your cat seems depressed, it may not be cancer, but you should still get to the bottom of things.

7. You cat’s pooping and peeing habits change

When your cat eats something that’s rotten or not part of his usual diet, this can lead to occasional diarrhea. However, when the symptoms last for more than 5 days, you should see a vet. It can also be a sign of a gastrointestinal tumor. Pay attention as well if you cat’s having a hard time urinating or you find blood in his stools.

8. Strange lumps

Strange lumps and bumps below a cat’s skin aren’t always a sign of cancer. However, it’s always best to have your veterinarian perform tests to rule out any dangerous illnesses. A vet will perform a biopsy by puncturing the lump in order to find out if the cells are cancerous or not.

9. Difficulty breathing

It’s one thing for cats to have a large hairball in their throats. But if you cat’s not breathing correctly and you can’t figure out why then take him to a veterinarian. This can be a sign of feline lung cancer, especially if it involves intense coughing.

Source of main image: Imanol