Answering Questions
About Your Pet’s Cancer
An important part of treating our Animal Patients is making sure that owners are well-informed about the specific cancer type their pets are fighting. This section, written by our own ACCC specialists, provides answers to the questions you may have. Simply click on the cancer type, and you will find details, including treatment options, possible side effects, and expected prognosis. Of course, your ACCC doctor can answer any additional questions you may have about your pet’s unique situation.
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Common Questions About Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy drugs are compounds that are toxic to cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be given as an IV injection or an injection under the skin. It can also be given orally. How does chemotherapy work? Cancer cells generally multiply very rapidly. Most chemotherapy drugs work by damaging the ability of these rapidly growing cells to divide, eventually killing them. What are the benefits of chemotherapy? Chemotherapy is used by veterinarians to treat cancers in four basic but different ways: Chemotherapy is the most effective single treatment for some types of cancer, offering the best opportunity for remission while at the same time preserving a good quality of life. For example, lymphoma, also called lymphosarcoma, reacts well to chemotherapy.
Common Signs and Causes of Cancer: Part 2
Performing a monthly checkup of your pet at home is recommended to set a familiar baseline. By paying attention to the specific areas listed below, early detection of cancer becomes a practical and attainable goal for all pets. First, pay attention to any lumps or swellings in the skin. If these lumps or masses seem to grow over a period of time, they must be investigated further by your primary care veterinarian. Lymph nodes in the skin can become swollen quickly and indicate that lymphosarcoma may be present. Skin cancers are the most common type of cancer that we see in dogs. Any new skin masses that grow need to be addressed. In feline patients, breast cancer is almost always aggressive and malignant. Any skin lumps in the mammary region need to be addressed in both dogs and cats.
Common Signs of Cancer: Part 1
Pet owners want to understand and be aware of any possible signs and causes of cancer. Below are a few behaviors to monitor. When in doubt, always consult with your primary care veterinarian regarding any changes in behavior or physical appearance. Monitoring your pet's appetite is an important way to determine if your pet is ill. Changes in the appetite can be the first sign that there is something wrong. Appetite changes can occur for numerous reasons. Tumors in the mouth or stomach can make it difficult for a pet to chew or swallow. Cancer in the liver or kidneys can interfere with the function of these organs and make the pet feel nauseated so that there is no appetite present.
