Types Of Cancer In Cats

Due to the wide range of cancer specific diseases in cats, it will be a daunting task to mention all the types of cancer in cats and how they manifest. But the most widely known cases are presented below:

Lymphoma

This is the most common of all types of cancer in cats. It results to a tumor of lymphocyte which plays an active role in the immune system. Apart from its manifestations in the blood, lymphoma can equally affect other white blood cells at other parts of the body. This type of cancer can occur virtually anywhere in the body due to the vast distribution of white blood cells (WBCs) in the body. Some of the most common places that can affected are the nervous system, the kidneys, the nose, intestinal tract, the chest cavity, and the lymph nodes. Diagnosis for these types of cancer in cats can vary depending on the affected tissue. Both infections with immunodeficiency virus and leukaemia can be predisposing or underlying causes of the occurrence of lymphoma.

Squamous cell carcinoma

This is a form of skin cancer that affects cats, and is most prevalent in the tongue. The main trigger of these types of cancer in cats is constant exposure to the sun, and is most common in white cats. It looks like a non-healing wound or a small scratch and can equally be seen in the ears or nose. When the squarmous carcinoma is detected early, treatment can be successful through radiation therapy or surgical removal. The administration of local therapy is also effective, especially for tumors affecting the skin’s superficial layers. Usually, drug therapy does not do much to properly treat these types of cancer in cats.

Mammary carcinoma

The mammary carcinoma affects the mammary glands. The tumor can affect more than a single gland, which results to the development of multiple nodules or swellings. The tumor may eventually spread to the lungs and lymph nodes. For this type of cancer, an early treatment is advised as it will prevent the multiplication of the tumors and their spread to other tissues in the body.

Mast cell tumour

These types of cancer in cats commonly affect the intestines, spleen, or the skin. When they affect the intestine, it leads to blockages in the intestine. Surgical treatment is available for mast cell tumor but all the tumors may not be easily removed which can extend to the lungs, spleen, liver, and lymph nodes.

Soft tissue /Fibrosarcoma sarcoma

These types of cancer in cats originate from the fibroblast and other associated tissues. The extent of effect of these tumors varies. While some are not very invasive and less malignant, others are highly aggressive and are more invasive. Treatment for this type of cancer disease can either be through radiation therapy or through surgery.

Osteosarcoma

These ones manly affect the bones. When the limbs are affected, the cancer might weaken the bone thereby causing the bone to be fractured which leads to lameness and severe pain. Even where there are no fractures, Osteosarcoma may still lead to lameness and severe pain.