Top 10 Signs of Cancer in Dogs and Cats

Many people do not realize that cancer is not just a human condition — it affects our pets as well. In fact, cancer is the number one disease-related killer of dogs and cats. Dr. Lorie Huston tells her clients to be on the lookout for the following signs. While these symptoms are not purely indicative of cancer, if a pet begins to exhibit them you should visit your veterinarian immediately. Just like with people, the earlier cancer is caught the better.

10. Lumps and Bumps

Not all lumps and bumps on or under your dog or cat’s skin will be cancerous, but there is no way to know for sure without getting your veterinarian involved – this is especially important if the lump is not resolving itself or is growing in size. A needle biopsy is commonly done and a veterinary pathologist can let you know if the cells are cancerous or not.

9. Abnormal Odors

Offensive odors from your dog or cat’s mouth, ears, or any other part of your pet’s body, should be checked out. Oftentimes cancers of the mouth, nose, or anal regions can cause such foul odors.

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Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Connie O.

4:23PM PDT on Mar 12, 2013

Very informative. Thanks for the info.

March 12
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Angie V.

12:32PM PDT on Mar 12, 2013

Thanks...

Sheri P.

10:43AM PDT on Aug 13, 2012

thanks for the info.

August 13
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Dale O.

8:24AM PDT on Jul 31, 2012

We must be aware when it comes to the health of the companion animals in our lives and keep an eye open for changes.

July 31
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Patricia H.

1:15PM PDT on Jul 27, 2012

thanks for posting

July 27
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Despina V.

11:52AM PDT on Jul 19, 2012

noted

July 19
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Darla G.

2:42PM PDT on Jul 18, 2012

This is good information. Unfortunately, sometimes by the time a dog exhibits symptoms, it's too late. Dogs instinctively hide pain, probably a throwback to their heritage as wild pack animals. To show weakness in the pack is to be shunned, etc.

July 18
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Deborah T W.

4:49AM PDT on Jul 18, 2012

Thanks for sharing . great information.

Ernie M.

8:32AM PDT on Jul 17, 2012

good information should be reposted frequantly as people can forget or fail to notice the changes. Like with people some cancers can be treated or even reversed in animals.