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Cat Cancer Diagnosis

Veterinarian Reviewed on April 1, 2014 by Dr. Janice Huntingford

Cat Cancer Diagnosis

Symptoms

• Swelling that continues to increase

• The appearance of sores the take a long time to heal

Cat Loss of Weight

Cat Loss of Appetite

• Discharge or bleeding from any part of the body

• Odor that is offensive

• Problems swallowing or eating

Cat Lethargy

• Some stiffness or lameness that does not go away

Cat Constipation

Cat Difficulty Breathing

• Problems urinating

While these symptoms are prevalent in Cat Cancer, some are also symptoms of other diseases. The basic caution for your treatment of your cat is a trip to the veterinarian for a diagnosis.

The diagnosis of cancer can be a horrible shock to an owner. There are however, steps you can take that will help both you and your cat. Your aim should be to give your cat a fighting chance and a good quality of life.

Steps you can take

First of all, do not panic. Cancer is one of the words anyone hates to hear. Regardless of the age of your beloved cat you do not want to hear that word as a diagnosis of your cat’s condition. Feelings of anger, fear, confusion and a bit of guilt are common and you should give yourself the opportunity to deal with all of these emotions. Your cat will need your strength for the battle.

Education helps. If you educate yourself as to the type of cancer your cat has, you will empower yourself to help your cat more effectively. There are many different types of this disease and by educating yourself you will relieve some of the mystery as well as being able to have some realistic goals as to the outcome. There are many decisions that you will be forced to make as treatment begins. Educating yourself will help you to make the right ones. You will know the potential prognosis for the type of cancer. You will also know what signs to look for to judge improvement or decline in your cats condition. This is all-empowering.

Friends and family will be a great resource for help and encouragement. It is important to gather your team together to accomplish the task. Your primary veterinarian is your first team member. They are familiar with your cats history and can recommend the consultation with an oncologist who is current on all the cancer treatments that may be available. Holistic veterinarians also have a place within your team. They will deal with all aspects of your cat’s life and your own life to come to a desirable treatment plan. Surround yourself with people you trust.


Some dietary changes are in order

Studies show that a diet that is high in Cat Omega Fatty Acids such as Omega 3 acids and low carbohydrates accompanied by moderate protein is best. Often you will seek out the possibility of raw diets or even home cooked meals. This will depend on what your own beliefs are and what your veterinarian recommends. Often there will be dietary supplements prescribed by your vet.

A cat that has been diagnosed with cancer will need to be protected from harmful chemicals. There are studies that show a link between the exposure to Cat Lawn Chemicals and household chemicals and cancer in cats. You may also want to consider filtered water for additional protection.

Don’t give up. Take advantage of every day and share those days with your cat.

Read also: Cat Depression
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Our Expert

Dr. Janice Huntingford
Janice Huntingford, DVM, has been in veterinary practice for over 30 years and has founded two veterinary clinics since receiving her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph. She has studied extensively in both conventional and holistic modalities. Ask Dr. Jan

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