Reach out to friends and family when your pet is sick.
Pets become a part of your family and it is difficult when one of your animals has cancer. By arming yourself with information and emotional support, you can improve your cat's chances of survival.
Know the Common Signs
Oral cancer involves constant drooling and difficulty with swallowing. A cat with lung cancer will have difficulty breathing or heavy breathing.
Dr. Gerald S. Post of Animal Cancer Foundation offers the top 10 warning signs of cat cancer: abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow, sores that do not heal, weight loss, loss of appetite, bleeding or discharge from any body opening, offensive odor, difficulty eating or swallowing, hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina, persistent lameness or stiffness and difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating.
Diagnosing Cancer in Cats
A pathologist can usually tell by performing a biopsy. Keep all copies of blood tests and exams for future reference.
Treatment
Once your cat is diagnosed with cancer, your veterinarian will proceed with the appropriate treatment. At this time, cat owners may feel helpless and fearful for their cats. Reach out to your friends and family for emotional support. You may also find others who are going through similar challenges in online support groups.
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