Cancer is an ever-growing problem for our pets, so it’s no surprise that we’re always on the lookout for anything abnormal. Annual veterinary exams can help ensure your cat stays happy and healthy, but cats are very stoic animals that rarely show any symptoms of disease before it’s too late. To be proactive in our cat’s health, it’s important to take note of any of these symptoms and be sure to check with your veterinarian to rule out any problems.
#1 – Weight Loss
While some cats could stand to lose a few pounds, noticing unwarranted and sudden weight loss is typically a sign that something is wrong. Because cancer cells take a lot of energy and nutrition away from our cats, it’s very common for them to start losing weight rapidly and without obvious explanation.
#2 – Lethargy
Cats sleep a lot, but when they’re awake they do remain fairly active and enjoy their playtime. If you notice your cat sleeping more than normal or showing no interest in play and activity, there’s a good chance he’s not feeling very well.
#3 – Lumps
Lumps are probably the most obvious sign of cancer in cats because they’re often easily seen and felt. Lumps are not always dangerous, but it’s important to take your cat to the veterinarian if you find any. They can appear anywhere on the body and can grow very slowly or very quickly.
#4 – Bad Breath
Your cat’s breath probably doesn’t smell particularly good to begin with, but very foul and abnormal smelling breath can be a sign of cancer and other ailments. Hopefully your cat will just need a dental cleaning, but if you notice bad breath it’s important to take your cat to the veterinarian.
#5 – Sudden Lameness
Tumors can often be painful, especially if they are in bone tissue. Sudden lameness in cats is certainly a sign that something isn’t right and it’s best to rule out the cause as soon as possible. Not only are our cats obvious in pain and discomfort, bone cancers can spread quickly and it’s best to get them under control. Sometimes even an amputation is the best answer. But don’t worry, cats can get around very well on only three legs.
#6 – Sores & Wounds That Don’t Heal
If your cat is fighting something like cancer, it’s going to take all of the time her immune system has to offer. Therefore, it’s not uncommon for cats to develop sores or have small wounds that never seem to heal. Even tiny scratches can become inflamed and infected when they would normally be gone in a few days. If you notice this happening to your cat, take her to the vet right away.
#7 – Difficulty Breathing
Tumors often grow inside or push against the lungs and throat of our cats, making breathing very difficult. If you notice any wheezing or panting, be sure to take your cat to the vet as soon as possible. If left untreated, tumors in the chest cavity or throat can suffocate cats very quickly.
#8 – Loss of Appetite
If you notice your cat isn’t eating as much or has stopped eating altogether, it’s imperative to seek veterinary attention immediately. Regardless of the cause of his inappetence, cats can suffer from a dangerous side effect, called fatty liver, from not eating for just a day or two. Fatty liver, or hepatic lipidosis, is very common in cats that stop eating suddenly and can be just as fatal as the cancer that may be causing your cat to avoid food.
#9 – Abnormal Swelling
Some tumors can’t be seen or felt just under the skin, but you might notice that your cat’s chest or abdomen has become enlarged or distended. This could mean that something dangerous is growing inside and is a sure sign that your cat needs veterinary care.
#10 – Vomiting & Diarrhea
Vomiting and diarrhea is relatively common in cats and can be caused by just about anything, but persistent symptoms are a sign that something is definitely wrong. If you notice excess vomiting and/or diarrhea that lasts for a long period of time or gets progressively worse, cancer could certainly eb the culprit and your cat should see a veterinarian sooner rather than later.