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According to the Veterinary Cancer Society in the US, cancer is the main cause of death in 47% of dogs and 32% of cats. Cancer usually appears in aging animals, but some breeds have higher rates than others.
Combination therapy refers to the use of two or more treatment options. It's a frequently used approach that offers the best opportunity to cure the cancer, while maintaining the animals' quality of life.
Once this testing has been completed, your vet will be better able to discuss treatment options for your pet. They will also discuss the goal of the therapy.
By doing a little reading before you visit the veterinary oncologist, you'll feel more comfortable and will better understand the medical terms. Bring a notebook along so that you can take notes about treatment options and next steps. And don’t forget to ask questions.
Animals are intelligent and sense your feelings. Stay focused on your pet, not the cancer. When you remain positive, your pet’s sense of well-being and happiness will be positively affected, too.
Sources: (OncoLink) (MSD Veterinary Manual) (Colorado State University)
See also: How you can save and protect animals
Certain drugs destroy cancer cells. This type of treatment is called chemotherapy. It can be used to manage and treat several types of cancer. Vets will prescribe chemotherapy based on the type of cancer being treated, the stage of the cancer, and the overall condition of the animal.
You might be uncertain about the choices presented to you when your pet is diagnosed with cancer. As you do in human medicine, get a second opinion from a board-certified veterinary oncologist. You'll better understand a chosen course of treatment.
Normal, fun activities like walks and playtime will help to maintain a healthy mindset for both you and your pet. They like routine, so keeping them active and engaged will be good for them.
It may be helpful to join a support group of other pet owners coping with their sick animals. It will help you counter some of your fear, isolation, and worry. Your vet should be able to provide resources online and in your local area.
Cancer is a disease that results from the uncontrolled growth of cells in the body. The terms cancer, malignancy, and neoplasia may be used interchangeably, but they're just different ways to say cancer.
As for any diagnosis, educate yourself on the options, costs, and the pros and cons of treating your pet.
Unfortunately, we're not there yet in terms of finding a cure for cancer. However, much has been learned about managing and treating this ancient disease.
One of the most common treatments for cancer in both humans and animals is radiation therapy. It's sometimes also called x-ray therapy, radioisotope irradiation, or cobalt therapy.
Vets have been successful in using the different treatments to cure many animal cancers. Meanwhile, research is continuing and the prospects for better treatments are strong.
If your pet can't enjoy the activities they once did, due to discomfort, then their quality of life is compromised. When quality of life is impacted, euthanasia is often considered.
Surgery is one of the oldest forms of treatment, and frequently the most effective. Today, surgery may be combined with radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy, depending on the case.
It's not unusual for pets to develop cancer. As they age, their immune system weakens and cancer becomes a higher risk, just like in humans.
The cells that form muscles, connective tissues, and bones are known as mesenchymal cells. When these become cancerous, the tumor is called a sarcoma. Bone cancer, also called osteosarcoma, is a well-known type of sarcoma.
Cancers of the blood are known as leukemia. Cancers involving the blood-forming tissues are called lymphomas. These are more common with cats.
The cells that cover the surfaces of the body, produce hormones, and make up glands are known as epithelial cells. When they mutate into cancer cells, the tumor is called a carcinoma. Cancers of the skin, lung, colon, stomach, breast, prostate, and thyroid gland all fall under the general category of carcinoma.
Breast cancer, skin cancer, bone cancer, mouth cancer, connective tissue cancer, and lymphatic tissue cancer are most frequently found in pets.
Animal cancer treatment focuses on alleviating pain, while extending life, as long as the quality of that life can be preserved. Treatment is typically much less aggressive than in humans.
Other tests may include ultrasound, specialized radiologic studies, bone marrow aspirate, lymph node aspirate, endoscopy, and immunologic studies.
Medical care for pets can be costly. So if you have pet insurance, make sure to use it. There are also some pet support organizations that can help when you're unable to afford the vet bill.
In an effort to test and find more effective forms of therapy, you may be asked by your veterinarian if you are willing to enroll your pet in a clinical trial.
Your vet may order several tests to understand the extent of the tumor(s). It can include blood tests, urinalysis, radiographs, tissue aspirate, and biopsies.
There are several types of therapies used to treat cancer in companion animals. By educating yourself, you'll better understand which treatment is best for your furry friend.
You don't need to pursue a treatment if it's having too many side effects, or you change your mind about moving forward. You can stop at any time. If you decide to stop a particular treatment, communicate your thoughts to your vet. Make sure to also ask about alternatives. The last thing anyone wants is for your pet to suffer.
Cancer treatment has its ups and downs. Expect some bumps along the way. However, good communication with your vet throughout the treatments will help.
Hearing that someone you love has cancer is scary, and the same goes for your pet. Indeed, it's difficult on many levels. It's normal to feel helpless if your furry companion has been diagnosed with cancer, but it's important that you don't panic. Instead, focus on what you can do and what you need to know during this challenging time.
There are several steps that you can take to educate yourself and care for your animal. Check out the following gallery to ease your stress when your pet has been diagnosed with cancer.
What you need to know (and do) when your pet has cancer
Important steps as you develop an action plan for your beloved pet
LIFESTYLE Tips
Hearing that someone you love has cancer is scary, and the same goes for your pet. Indeed, it's difficult on many levels. It's normal to feel helpless if your furry companion has been diagnosed with cancer, but it's important that you don't panic. Instead, focus on what you can do and what you need to know during this challenging time.
There are several steps that you can take to educate yourself and care for your animal. Check out the following gallery to ease your stress when your pet has been diagnosed with cancer.