Aged cats are at a higher risk of developing kidney cancer, and as they age, their ability to recover from treatment diminishes. Most kidney tumors in cats are malignant and highly invasive, with more than 50% of cases spreading rapidly. Renal cancer can spread to various organs, including the blood, lymph nodes, lungs, brain, and spinal cord. Because of its aggressive nature, the cancer is often already advanced by the time symptoms become noticeable. This underscores the importance of routine or annual blood tests for your cat.
Kidney cancer in cats is relatively rare, with lymphoma being the most common type, followed by renal cell carcinoma. All forms of renal cancer are extremely dangerous and require immediate treatment. In many cases, kidney cancer has metastasized from other parts of the body, further complicating the condition.
Symptoms And Types Of Kidney Cancer In Cats
The symptoms are generally non-specific and may include:
- Gradual weight loss
- Reduced appetite
- Low energy and lethargy
- Blood in the urine
Cause Of Kidney Cancer In Cats
The precise cause of kidney adenocarcinoma remains unknown, and it is classified as idiopathic.
Diagnosis Of Kidney Cancer In Cats
Your vet will need a detailed history of your cat's health, including any symptoms they've experienced. A comprehensive physical examination and tests such as a complete blood count, biochemical profile, and urinalysis will be conducted to identify or rule out other potential causes. Urinalysis is particularly important for diagnosing kidney adenocarcinoma, as it provides key information for the final diagnosis. This test will detect the presence of blood, proteins, and bacteria in the urine, and a urine culture will be conducted to rule out infections. Occasionally, tumor cells may also be detected in the urine, which can help establish an initial diagnosis. Additional diagnostic tools include X-rays and ultrasounds, which will reveal the tumor's presence, size, location, and other crucial details. Your veterinarian may perform a kidney biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. In some cases, surgery may be required to obtain a sample of the tumor for a definitive diagnosis.
Treatment Of Kidney Cancer In Cats
There is no single cure for renal adenocarcinoma, but surgery is the most common treatment option. This involves completely removing the cancerous tissue along with some surrounding healthy tissue. In some cases, chemotherapy may be used, though its success rate is generally low. For patients with renal failure or other complications, treatment will concentrate on managing symptoms and preventing the condition from worsening.
Recovery Of Kidney Cancer In Cats
Since there is no definitive treatment available, cats with renal adenocarcinoma may have only a few months to live, even if the tumor is small and localized. If surgery is performed, your veterinarian will likely recommend regular urine and blood tests and radiographs to monitor for tumor regrowth. These cats often face complications, such as kidney failure, and will require ongoing monitoring. You can help by improving your cat's quality of life by keeping it comfortable and minimizing stress. Following your veterinarian's instructions is essential, especially when administering chemotherapy at home. Many chemotherapy drugs can be hazardous if not handled correctly, so consult your veterinarian on proper handling techniques.
