Cancer is diagnosed in many different ways, but there are common
threads among many different cancers. Sometimes a pet develops an
abnormal lump or bump. Sometimes there is a behaviour change . .
. decreased activity, increased sleeping, difficulty getting up or
down, decreased appetite, increased thirst, and so on. The Veterinary
Cancer Society www.vetcancersociety.org
,
along with the American Veterinary Medical Association, has developed
a list of the top 10 warning signs for cancer. Recognizing the
warning signs, can help you detect cancer in its early stages, and
early detection is often the key to successful treatment of this
disease. If your pet is experiencing any of the symptoms listed
below, please consult your veterinarian as soon as possible, and
remember, while these signs may indicate cancer in your pet, they can
also occur for a variety of other reasons. A thorough
examination of your pet, by your veterinarian, is the only way to
determine the underlying cause of the symptoms.
1. Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow
2. Sores that do not heal
3. Weight loss
4. Loss of appetite
5. Bleeding or discharge from any body opening
6. Offensive odour
7. Difficulty eating or swallowing
8. Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina
9. Persistent lameness or stiffness
10. Difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating
Pets Living with Cancer: A Pet Owner's Resource; Robin
Downing, DVM
"Warning Signs of Cancer"; American Veterinary
Medical Association and the Veterinary Cancer Society
