There are various types of cancer that pets can be diagnosed with. As a responsible pet parent, it is essential that you keep a close eye on changes in behavior and any signs of illness, since early recognition of disease and cancer and can play a key role in prolonging your pet’s life. Here are the most common warning signs and symptoms of cancer in dogs and cats:

It is important to observe for any new growths or masses that appear on your pet’s body. Evaluating your pet frequently for any lumps or bumps and alerting your veterinarian to these changes may help with early recognition of certain cancers. Some pet parents may feel enlarged lumps in the region of their pet’s lymph nodes, which can be an indication of infection or cancer. Your veterinarian can perform a fine needle aspirate or a biopsy, which means they can take a sample of the mass and evaluate it for specific cancer cells.

Keeping a close eye on the weight of your pet is another important aspect of tracking overall health. If your beloved pet is losing weight, but still eating and exercising normally, then you should further investigate for any underlying medical reasons for the unexplained weight loss. Also, sudden loss of interest in your pet’s normal diet would also be a reason for alarm requiring a veterinary visit.

There are several cancers that originate in the lungs or eventually spread to the lungs. This is why observing for changes in respiratory effort or breathing patterns can indicate severe illness, including cancer. If your pet is having shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing or tiredness after exercise, then you should seek veterinary evaluation as soon as possible. It is also important to evaluate your pet’s gums and tongue for any change in color, including a pale pink, white or blue which would mean your pet is not getting a proper amount of oxygen throughout the body.

Cancers can cause your pet to feel extremely sick and result in vomiting and diarrhea. Chronic vomiting and diarrhea can also result in serious dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. In these situations, you should seek immediate veterinary care for evaluation and treatment.

A notable change in your pet’s personality can be an early sign that of an underlying illness. This is generally easier to identify in dogs; if your beloved canine is laying around more than normal and showing less interest in normal activities, such as playing with toys or going for a walk, then you should discuss your concerns with your veterinarian. Also if your pet is having difficulty walking or begins limping then this could possibly indicate a bony cancer. Your veterinarian can run certain tests, such as bloodwork, x-rays or ultrasound to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

Source: Petcoach, 1/2018