Millions of cats and dogs are diagnosed with a form of cancer every year, and there is a good chance at least one of your pets will develop cancer at some point. Unfortunately, many pet owners are unaware of the dangers and signs of canine or feline cancer.
The pet cancer awareness month of May helps pet owners stay informed of their pet's risk for cancer, symptoms, and treatment options. By being aware of your pet's risk for cancer, you may be able to save your pet's life in the future.
What Do You Know About Pet Cancer?
Chances are, you know very little about pet cancer. Most people are unaware of the signs and symptoms, treatment options, and potential outcomes of pet cancer. With an illness like this, it's important to be prepared, which means doing your research.
First, take note of the symptoms. You can see some of them below.
1. Sudden Weight Loss
Sudden or unexplained weight loss is a common symptom of cancer. Unfortunately, it is a symptom that goes unnoticed until a pet is significantly underweight.
2. Loss of Appetite
Sometimes, cancer can cause your pet to stop eating altogether. Cancer cells often affect the animal's intestinal tract, making it impossible for the food to get digested and for the animal to receive the nutrients that it needs.
3. Repeat Diarrhea
Excessive diarrhea is often seen in animals with cancer. It is a very common symptom of many types of cancer, including kidney, liver, and digestive system cancers.
4. Lumps or Swellings
If you notice a lump or a growth on your pet, take note of it. Not all lumps are cancerous, but it's better to be safe than sorry.
5. Swollen Legs or Feet
Lumps aren't the only thing that can cause a pet to feel unwell. Swelling on the legs and feet can be a symptom of cancer, particularly lymphoma.
You should keep in mind, though, that these symptoms can also be the result of other illnesses. Instead of trusting your gut, you may want to consult with a veterinarian to be sure of the illness that your pet is suffering through.
Consulting with a veterinarian can also be more beneficial than you think. For example, you can use this time to ask your veterinarian about your pet's cancer treatment options. In most cases, treatment is possible, and pet owners should educate themselves on the subject.
What Can You Do About Pet Cancer?
First and foremost, you can stay informed. Pet owners should read and learn about their pet's risk for cancer, symptoms, and treatment options.
The more you know, the better equipped you will be to make an educated decision about your pet's health, and the better your chances of saving your pet's life.
You can also take steps to reduce your pet's chances of developing cancer. Some of these steps include:
Brush your pet's teeth regularly.
Bathe your pet regularly.
Feed your pet a healthy, balanced diet.
Keep your pet at a healthy weight.
Keep your pet away from environmental factors that may trigger cancer.
Final Note
No one likes the thought of their pet suffering from cancer. However, if you're aware of your pet's risk for cancer and risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options, you may be able to save your pet's life. As you can see, there is a lot to know about pet cancer.
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