Has your pet been diagnosed with cancer?  One in four dogs and one in five cats will develop cancer in their lifetimes.  Experts say that the number of pet cancer cases is rising, as advances in veterinary medicine are increasing the lifespans of our companion animals.

Here are a few important facts about cancer for all pet owners.

Common symptoms of cancer in pets

• Abnormal lumps or swollen areas
• Sores that do not heal
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Lethargy
• Unpleasant odor
• Bloody discharge
• Difficulty breathing or eliminating
• Lameness

Most common pet cancers

• Mammary gland tumors. These are more common in dogs than cats.
• Skin tumors. Tumors in cats tend to be more malignant than in dogs; some canine tumors can be benign.
• Head and neck cancer. Especially common in the mouth and nose.
• Lymphoma. A common cancer in both dogs and cats.  Lymphoma in cats is linked to second-hand smoke exposure.
• Bone cancer. Older, large breed dogs are especially at risk.

Pet cancer prevention tips

• Spay and neuter your pet. This greatly reduces the risk of cancer in the mammary glands and sex organs.
• Keep your pet at a healthy weight. Obesity can cause many health problems, including cancer.
• Make sure your pet gets plenty of exercise.
• Brush your pet’s teeth and visit the vet for regular oral exams.
• Keep pets, especially those with white fur, out of the sun to avoid the risk of skin cancer.

For more information, check out this article from the American Veterinary Medical Association.