National Pet Cancer Awareness Month: All you need to know about Cancer in Pets

November is observed as National Pet Cancer Awareness Month. Cancer being one of the top reasons for the death of cats and dogs in the U.S., this month aims to spread knowledge about cancer in pets so that we can prevent and treat it on time.
Here are a few resources that you should aim to learn about during this National Pet Cancer Awareness Month. Let’s do our best to keep our pets healthy.
What Causes Cancer in Pets?
Cancer is an uncontrollable growth of cells that develop into an abnormal mass of tissue known as a tumor. There is no specific cause of cancer, but it is caused by changes in the genetic makeup of the cells. This genetic damage can occur due to a variety of environmental and genetic factors like radiation, chemicals, hormones or infections. Sometimes, aging can also be a cause of cancer, leading to the death of senior pets.

Types of Cancer in Pets
Just like humans, pets are also at a risk of developing different kinds of cancer.  Here are some of them:

Lymphoma (lymph nodes)
Skin cancer
Oral cancer
Thyroid cancer
Splenic cancer (spleen)
Bone/joint cancer
Hepatic cancer (liver)
Thoracic cancer (chest)
Lung cancer
Stomach cancer
Bladder cancer
Anal sac cancer
Oral cancer
Brain cancer
Spinal cord cancer

Signs and Symptoms of Cancer in Pets
Cancer can occur in all types of pets, including cats and dogs, regardless of their age, breed or size. Therefore, it is imperative to keep your eyes open for the warning signs of cancer, as it can be cured if detected early.
Some of these symptoms are as below:

Rapid weight loss
Unusual lumps or swelling
Loss of appetite
Bad odor from the mouth or body
Masses along the jaw line
Bleeding or discharge from the mouth or other orifices
Difficulty in eating or swallowing
Lameness
Stiffness
Trouble while urinating or defecating
Reluctance to exercise
Changes in blood
Sores that do not heal
Diarrhea
Vomiting

Even if your pet doesn’t have any of the above symptoms, November is a good reminder that you should maintain regular vet visits every six months, as a routine check-up can sometimes detect cancer at an initial stage.
Is Cancer Treatable in Pets?
Cancer is a pretty scary disease and its diagnosis can be a shock for pet parents. However, the good news is, the same treatments that are used to treat cancer in humans can be applied to pets by veterinary oncology experts. Here are some of the treatment options:

Chemotherapy
Immunotherapy
Bone Marrow Transplant
Palliative Radiation Therapy
Surgery

Things to Do this November
It is our duty to do our best to save our pets from a horrifying disease like cancer. Although cancer can be treated by modern technologies, the trauma of going through the meds and radiation therapies can take a toll on you and your pets. But, spreading awareness may end up saving a life. Watch out for the signs of cancer, take care of your pet’s diet and exercise and encourage pet owners for regular routine vet visits. Also, you can save our pets from suffering by sharing this article with your friends and family to educate them about cancer.

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The post National Pet Cancer Awareness Month: All you need to know about Cancer in Pets appeared first on CanadaVetCare Blog.