National Pet Cancer Awareness Month
Most Common Types of Cancer in Pets
Skin cancer, or Malignant Skin Neoplasia, is the most common type of cancer to develop in dogs and cats. Other common types of cancers in pets include the following:
- Lymphoma
- Splenic (Spleen) Cancer
- Bone or Joint Cancer
- Hepatic (Liver) Cancer
- Thoracic (Chest) Cancer
- Bladder Cancer
- Anal Sac Cancer
- Oral Cancer
- Brain or Spinal Cord Cancer
Early Signs of Cancer in Pets
Due to the many different types of cancers, there is a wide range of signs and symptoms that your pet can show. However, some of the most common signs of cancer in pets include the following:
- Lumps and bumps
- Abnormal odors
- Abnormal discharges
- Non-healing wounds
- Weight loss
- Change in appetite
- Coughing or difficulty breathing
- Lethargy or depression
- Changes in bathroom habits
- Evidence of pain
Treatment for Cancer in Pets
Surgical intervention is often the best option for the treatment of cancerous tumors. Surgical removal can include osteoarcomas, mast cell tumors, liver and splenic masses and other internal cancerous mass removals.
In addition to surgery, addressing and controlling the pain related to cancer is necessary. This is both during your pet’s surgery and stay, as wells when he or she returns home for recovery.
How to Prevent Cancer in Pets
There is no definitive cause of cancer in pets. However, you can take steps to reduce the risk of cancer in your dog or cat. These include the following:
- Schedule annual wellness checkups with All Pets, and twice-yearly checkups if your pet is older.
- Examine your pet’s body for any lumps and bumps. If you find a lump, contact your veterinarian immediately.
- Help your pet maintain a healthy weight.
- Protect your pet from sunburns to prevent melanoma, particularly for pets with short fur.
- Reduce environmental risks such as secondhand smoke, pesticides, cleansers with harsh chemicals, etc.
Show Your Support During Pet Cancer Awareness Month!
Join the #CurePetCancer2018 campaign! Throughout the month of November, Nationwide Pet Insurance will donate $5 to the Animal Cancer Foundation for every pet cancer e-card sent and every social media post using #CurePetCancer2018.
These are just basics of National Pet Cancer Awareness Month. For more information on pet cancer and the treatment options we offer at All Pets, contact us with the link below!
