Cancer is not just a human condition but it also affects pets. Stats show that Cancer stands on the first position when it comes to disease-related deaths of dogs and cats. The signs of cancer do not necessarily need a professional eye to stand out. With this article, Petscura brings you the facts to know and symptoms to look out for at all times. Although these symptoms may not be purely indicative of cancer but it is wise to consult the vet as soon as they are noticed to have tests run on your little one. Just like with people, the earlier cancer is caught the better.

1.   Evidence of pain

The pet may seem to be in pain while carrying out daily activities. It may seem to limp while trying to walk, jump or run. This can be an indicative for cancer(of the bone) but on the other hand may be indicating arthritis issues, muscle or joint diseases. In both cases, it is best to visit the vet immediately.

2. Changes in bathroom habits

The timings of passing urine or bowels may change from the usual. The pet may also seem to face a difficulty while using the bathroom. This also can be a cause of change in diet but when the urine and bowels seem to have blood in them, it is a guaranteed sign of a serious ailment.

3. Lethargy and depression

There may be times when your pet feels low. Something like that is normal when it is for a day or two but not for many days altogether. If you notice your pet sleeping more, playing less, avoiding going out for walks or the usual play time, there is surely something extremely wrong. Lethargy and depression are not particularly symptoms confined to cancer but an accumulations of these signs need to be discussed with the vet.

4. Coughing and difficulty in breathing

Coughing or abnormal breathing can be caused by heart disease, lung disease, and also cancer. Cancer can metastasize through the lungs and cause these symptoms.

5. Change in appetite

Lack of appetite due to tiredness can exist for a day but not more than that. No dog or cat can stop eating without any cause. While again it may not directly point towards cancer, it is better to discuss the huge alteration with the vet. Oral tumors can also cause difficulty or pain when eating or swallowing.

6. Loss of weight

Cancer is among the list of diseases that can cause weight loss in a pet. If you notice sudden weight loss in your dog or cat (and it is not currently on a diet), along with other signs from this list, be sure to mention it to your veterinarian.

7. Non-healing wounds

If your pet has wounds or sores that are not healing, it could be a sign of infection, skin disease, or even cancer.

8. Abnormal discharges

Blood, pus, vomiting, diarrhea, or any other abnormal substance being discharged from any part of your pet’s body should be checked out by your veterinarian. Also, check if the pet’s abdomen has bloated or distended as this provides an additional sign of an accumulation of abnormal discharge within the body.

9. Abnormal odors

Offensive odors from your dog or cat’s mouth, ears, or any other part of your pet’s body, should be checked out. Many times cancers of the mouth, nose, or anal regions can cause such foul odors.

10. Lumps and bumps

Not all lumps and bumps on or under your dog or cat’s skin will be cancerous, but there is no way to know for sure without getting your veterinarian involved. This is especially important if the lump is not resolving itself or is growing in size. A needle biopsy is commonly done and a veterinary pathologist can let you know if the cells are cancerous or not.

On detection and notice of any of these symptoms, it is best to immediately visit the vet to avoid taking any chances with the present and future health of your little one. Cancer or no cancer, it is wise to have an expert’s opinion and be safe.