Cat Meningiomas

The most common type of malignant brain tumors in is meningioma. The meninges make up the lining of the cat’s skull and vertebral column. The term Cat Brain Tumor is not particularly accurate, as these tumors can also develop outside the skull. These particular tumors do not metastasize to other areas of the cat’s body.

‘Signs and Symptoms

Cat Seizures are the most common symptom. They are less noticeable in cats than in dogs. Length, frequency and severity will vary. Often you may not be aware of them until the animal is examined by a vet for other reasons.

There will be abnormal behavior, especially regarding the gait of the cat. These symptoms often go unnoticed for a prolonged period of time.

The cat’s appetite can change, they may be lethargic and not want to play and their face can become asymmetrical. These and other symptoms are the possible result of swelling and the accumulation of fluid in the area of the tumor.

Diagnosis

After a complete history and physical examination by your vet there will be a neurological exam that is conducted. This will include when the symptoms were first noticed by yourself and your vet can begin to determine the area of your cat’s brain that is involved.

Your cat’s general health will also be checked. There will be lab tests done including blood work, x-rays, bone marrow and testing for Cat Kidney Disease and Cat Liver Disease.

If your veterinarian does not some of the more advanced diagnostic tools in their office you may need the services of a veterinary oncologist, internist and/or neurologist.

Advanced studies of the cat’s brain may be performed. This will include CT and MRI scans. Your cat will be sedated for these procedures. They must remain immobile for up to one hour.

Treatment Options

Depending on the location, symptoms and type of tumor as well as the health of your cat, treatment will proceed. Your vet will custom fit the treatment for your individual cat. Be sure to inquire as to what treatments are available and consider the alternatives. Your veterinarian should be able to tell you what treatments are most successful for your cat’s type of tumor and Cat Cancer.

Surgery, Cat Cancer Chemotherapy and Cat Radiation Therapy are all used in the treatment of meningiomas. They can be used in combination or alone. Prior to any of the treatment, your cat will be given steroids to relieve possible edema following treatment or that which already exists. Seizure control medicine may also be given.

Surgery consists of opening the skull and removing the tumor.
It is always important for a cat owner to understand the risks involved in any treatment that may be ordered by your veterinarian. There are times when the treatment may be more dangerous than the disease itself.

At Home Care

Your cat will need to be closely observed for seizures and any reaction to the medication given. The pain associated with treatment will often affect the cat’s appetite. It is important to keep their nutritional status in control by offering them Cat Cancer Dietary Supplements. If they do not eat or drink an adequate amount, there is the possibility that their immune system will be compromised. This can create additional problems. Pain medication is also important. Both the tumor and treatment can cause pain. Your vet will order pain medication and it should be given as directed. Always follow the guidelines recommended for Cat Palliative Cancer Care.

Additional Cat Cancer Pages

Cat Cancer | Cat Skin Cancer | Cat Lung Cancer | Cat Pancreatic Cancer | Cat Cancer Prevention | Cat Cancer Diagnosis | Cat Gastric Cancer | Cat Lymphoma Cancer | Cat Squamous Cell Carcinoma | Cat Mouth Cancer | Cat Brain Tumor | Cat Palliative Cancer Care