If you're someone who owns a pet, you're probably aware of various diseases that can affect them physically and emotionally. One of these diseases is cancer, which has been prevalent among pets for many years. In fact, cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs and cats over the age of 10. This is why it's important to be as proactive as possible regarding cancer prevention and detection.
National Pet Cancer Awareness Month is being observed in November. And during this month, you must take some time to learn more about pet cancer and how you can help protect your furry friend from it.
What Is the National Pet Cancer Awareness Month?
Every year in November, the United States observes National Pet Cancer Awareness Month, which raises awareness of the occurrence of canine cancer and encourages early identification and treatment techniques.
Cancer is the biggest cause of mortality in both dogs and cats over the age of 10, according to the National Canine Cancer Foundation. While the cause of cancer in pets is not always known, there are many things that pet owners can do to help prevent the disease or to catch it early if it does develop.
This year, National Pet Cancer Awareness Month focuses on the importance of early detection. Professionals can perform several tests on pets to detect cancer early on, including blood tests, urinalysis, and x-rays. If cancer is caught early, the chances for successful treatment are much higher. In addition, early detection can also help to reduce the cost of treatment.
What is Pet Cancer?
Cancer is a general term that describes a group of diseases involving cells' abnormal growth. These cells can form tumors, interfering with the body's normal functioning.
Many types of cancer can affect pets, but the most common are lymphoma, mast cell tumors, and melanoma.
Lymphoma is a lymphatic system cancer, a network of organs and tissues that help rid the body of toxins and waste. Symptoms of lymphoma may include weight loss, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing.
Mast cell tumors often develop in cells that help fight infection. These tumors can form in any body part but are most common in the skin, intestines, and lungs. Symptoms of a mast cell tumor may include swelling, redness, and itching.
Melanoma is cancer that happens in cells that produce the pigment melanin. Melanoma is the most common form of skin cancer in pets and can occur in any breed of dog or cat. Symptoms of melanoma may include a lump or bump on the skin, bleeding, or ulcers.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Pet Cancer?
The cause of pet cancer varies greatly depending on the type of cancer. However, some of the most common causes of pet cancer include the following:
Age - As pets get older, their risk of developing cancer increases. This is because older pets have more time to accumulate mutations in their DNA. Additionally, older pets are more likely to develop cancer-causing inflammation and other health problems.
Genetics - Some pet cancers may be hereditary, meaning they are passed down from one generation to the next. For example, if a dog develops a cancerous tumor, there is a chance that some of the cancer cells may have been passed down from the dog's parents or grandparents.
Environment - Several environmental factors can increase the risk of pet cancer. Some of the most common culprits include exposure to toxins or carcinogens. Pets can be exposed to these toxins in several ways, including air, food, and water.
Diet - A growing body of evidence suggests that diet may play a role in developing cancer in pets. A diet high in processed foods or foods high in fat can increase the risk of cancer in pets. In addition, pets that are overweight are at serious risk of developing cancer.
Lifestyle - Pets that have inactive lifestyles and are always exposed to sunlight for long periods are more likely to gain weight and be at a higher risk of developing cancer.
How Pet Owners Can Mitigate the Risks of Pet Cancer
Pet owners can do several things to reduce the risk of their pets developing cancer.
Always Feed Your Pets With Healthy Food
A healthy diet is essential for a healthy pet. Pets need the right balance of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals to maintain their health and fight off disease. Feeding your pet junk food or processed foods can increase cancer risk. Instead, feed them a diet of healthy, unprocessed pet foods.
If you're having difficulty searching for proper foods, you can go to holistic pet stores and ask them for advice. There, you'll find a variety of healthy, unprocessed pet foods that will keep your pet healthy and happy.
Avoid Smoking Around Pets
Smoking is bad for humans, and it's bad for pets too. Secondhand smoke can increase the risk of cancer in pets. If you smoke, do it outside and away from your pets.
Limit Exposure to Toxic Chemicals
Many common household chemicals can be toxic to pets and increase cancer risk. Make sure to keep all chemicals and cleaners out of reach of your pets and never let them eat or drink anything containing chemicals.
Take Your Pets for Regular Check-ups
Bringing your dogs in for routine check-ups is one of the greatest methods to detect cancer early. Your vet can do routine tests to check for cancer and other health problems.
Make Sure Your Pet Gets Enough Exercise
Physical activity is important for pets as it helps keep their cells functioning properly. Lack of exercise can lead to obesity, a major risk factor for cancer. Ensure your pet gets plenty of exercises to keep them healthy and cancer-free.
Provide Adequate Sunlight Exposure
Pets need sunlight exposure to produce vitamin D, which is important for cell health. Lack of sunlight can lead to health problems, including cancer. Make sure your pet gets plenty of sunlight exposure every day.
Final Thoughts
National Pet Cancer Awareness Month is an important time to learn about the dangers of pet cancer and how best to protect your furry friends from this deadly disease. By understanding the symptoms of pet cancer, you can take steps to reduce your pet's risk of exposure to cancer-causing toxins, such as feeding them healthy pet food and taking them for regular check-ups. In addition, you can help keep your pet healthy and cancer-free.
Wags to Wiskers is a community-based holistic pet store in Ludington that provides pet supplies and healthy food items to help prevent cancer risks for your furry friends. Shop from us today!