A cat's body comprises countless cells that energize them, house DNA, and fulfill many roles, including immune defense.
When cells, which typically multiply and then die off, sustain damage and continue to grow unchecked, this can lead to the formation of tumors, some of which may be malignant.
Every year, around 6 million cats in the United States are diagnosed with cancer. Of these, between 53 and 83% of tumors are identified as malignant. The prognosis of cat cancer depends on the type of cancer, its progression, and the cat's general health.
Types Of Cancer In Cats
Cats are susceptible to various cancers, including:
- Lymphoma: The most prevalent cancer in cats, lymphoma impacts the lymphocytes—white blood cells found in lymphoid tissue throughout the body. It commonly affects the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, and lymph nodes.
- Mastocytoma, Also known as mast cell tumors, develops from mast cells originating in the bone marrow and circulating widely. In cats, they primarily appear in the skin or spleen.
- Leiomyosarcoma: A less common and painful cancer, leiomyosarcoma targets the muscle tissues in the stomach and intestines.
- Fibrosarcoma: This cancer involves the soft tissues, such as muscles and connective tissues, and is known for its slow but locally aggressive spread.
- Mammary Tumors: These aggressive tumors develop in the tissues surrounding a cat's mammary glands and often metastasize to nearby lymph nodes and lungs.
- Osteosarcoma: This type of bone cancer affects the skeletal structure of cats and is characterized by local aggression and significant pain.
- Ceruminous Gland Adenocarcinoma: This cancer originates in the ceruminous (sweat) glands, frequently within the ear canal.
- Melanoma: Typically presenting as isolated, raised lesions that may bleed, melanomas can occur in various body parts, including the mouth, skin, and eyes.
- Myeloproliferative Neoplasm: This blood cancer begins in the bone marrow.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): The most common skin tumor in cats, SCC is known for its rapid growth.
- Hemangiosarcoma: Originating from blood vessel cells, this fast-growing tumor can lead to internal bleeding.
- Transitional Cell Carcinoma (TCC): TCC develops in the bladder and is known for its local aggressiveness.
