Cat Histiocytic Sarcoma

Histiocytic sarcomas are cancerous tumors of the soft tissue. These tumors originate from cells in the immune system called dendritic and macrophage cells. There are two different types of sarcomas which are determined by the biological behavior and the clinical findings. These are disseminated (all over the body) and localized.

Signs and Symptoms

This type of tumor will manifest itself in different ways depending on the where they are. The symptoms that occur is most other cancers are evident in these as well. They are fatigue, Cat Loss of Weight due to Cat Loss of Appetite and weakness.

Localized Histiocytic Sarcoma

Although initially local, these are very aggressive tumors. There is a medium to high risk of metastasis. The most likely organs to be affected are the lungs, liver, spleen, kidneys and lymph nodes. They generally affect cats who are in their middle and senior years.

Diagnosis

The usual tests to diagnose are an ultrasound of the abdomen, a biopsy and a bone marrow cytology.

Treatment Options

Surgery is the most highly recommended treatment. If the tumor cannot be completely removed, radiation is recommended.

Prognosis

Depending on the location of the tumor and speed in which it is treated, prognosis is generally good.

Disseminated Histiocytic Sarcoma

These malignant tumors are those that involve the organs in a cat’s body.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms vary with the organs that are affected. Anemia, leukocytosis and thrombocytopenia are also common symptoms. Disseminated Histiocytic sarcoma is diagnosed frequently by symptoms rather than examination. Treatment is not very rewarding and the prognosis is very poor. Most cats survive less than one year after diagnosis.

Pain Associated With Histiocytic Sarcoma

All cancers cause pain, some more than others. Treatments such as surgery, Cat Cancer Chemotherapy and other treatments can also cause unrelenting pain. The veterinary team has the responsibility to treat the potential for pain rather than the pain itself. This is done by prescription medications that should be administered as directed. For some cancers the use of a therapeutic bed can increase the comfort as well. Some memory foam beds relieve joint and muscle pain and provide comfort for the patient.

Diet and Nutrition

Weight loss is a common side effect of cancer. The pain or obstruction causes a loss of appetite in the cat. Some mechanical interference is present with the involvement of cancers in and around the mouth and neck. Digestive systems are also compromised. It is important to consult closely with your veterinarian or your veterinary oncologist to develop a Cat Cancer Diets plan that will help your dog maintain their weight, and that includes Cat Cancer Dietary Supplements.

This will help by keeping your cat’s energy level up and will aid in maintaining a strong immune system. The pain from the cancer or the treatment can cause a loss of appetite in your cat as frequently as it does in humans. Maintaining a proper diet will help to improve survival times and also increase your cat’s response to therapy treatment. There are diets specifically designed for cats with cancer and it will require consultation with your veterinary team, especially the veterinary oncologist.

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