White blood cells are an important part of the immune system in both animals and humans. When these cells, which come in various types, begin to divide out of control in the blood or bone marrow, they become the cancer known as leukemia. This type of cancer can be either acute or chronic. Acute cancer cells are immature, while chronic cancerous cells are more mature. The acute cells tend to be more aggressive because they are more readily able to divide and do so at a rapid rate. In this type of cancer, the bone marrow is unable to produce healthy cells due to the presence of the cancerous cells overcrowding the marrow. It also tends to have poor responses to chemotherapy.

Who doesn’t love dog kisses? So, if your primary care veterinarian suspects cancer in your pup’s mouth, consider an immediate consultation with an oncology specialist. One type of oral cancer common in dogs is melanoma, which can exist in the skin in the mouth, as well as other parts of the body. Golden Retrievers, Labradors, Cocker Spaniels, and Poodles tend to get melanoma more often than other breeds. Melanoma inside of the mouth can be aggressive. Without treatment, survival times may be limited because eating becomes difficult. Staging tests are recommended as step one in managing melanoma. These tests often include chest radiographs, aspirates of the draining lymph nodes, bloodwork, and an abdominal ultrasound.

Because cats experience a wide range of cancer types and each case is unique, this blog provides an overview of common cancers by breed, as well as insights into two cancers common in cats. Siamese cats can have higher rates of mammary, intestinal and mast cell tumors and sometimes develop cancer at younger ages than other breeds. Persian cats can be more prone to basal cell tumors and have a higher risk of sebaceous gland tumors and skin cancers. Maine Coons can have higher rates of hip dysplasia, which can lead to bone cancer. They also tend to be more susceptible to lymphoma and spinal cord tumors. All light-colored cats can be more susceptible to squamous cell carcinoma, especially if they have pink noses or ears or areas of unpigmented skin.