Please note: Media Relations is unable to answer questions about pet health problems. Contact your veterinarian.  

CANCER IN PETS: WHAT PET OWNERS SHOULD KNOW

MANHATTAN -- With about 380 of every 100,000 dogs and 156 of every 100,000 cats at risk for cancer each year, pet owners are likely to have questions about how the disease, thought by some to be found only in people, can affect their dogs and cats. Dr. Ruthanne Chun, assistant professor of clinical oncology at Kansas State University, answers some frequently asked questions about cancer in animals.

What can cause cancer in my pet?

Just like people, excessive exposure to environmental toxins or sun may predispose animals to developing certain kinds of cancer. Inappropriate breeding may also lead to genetic abnormalities that result in an increased likelihood of developing cancer.

How can I detect cancer in my pet?

Pet your cat or dog thoroughly once a week to feel for abnormal lumps, bumps or swellings. Be alert for any area that appears to be painful when touched. Open wounds that are ulcerated and don't heal in a reasonable amount of time also could be potential signs of cancer. Nonspecific symptoms such as loss of appetite, weight loss, vomiting or diarrhea also may be causes for concern.

What does a diagnosis of cancer mean for my pet?

Your veterinarian must determine what type of tumor your pet has and how far it has spread. The best way to determine if the tumor is malignant (likely to spread to other parts of the body) or benign (grows only in one area of the body) is to perform a biopsy. A biopsy, and additional tests to determine whether or not the tumor has spread, will help determine your pet's long-term outlook. If the tumor is malignant, you and your veterinarian will have to decide the best treatment for your pet.

What treatment options are available for my pet?

There are three main options -- surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy -- that may be used alone or in combination depending on what type of treatment is needed. Your veterinarian can tell you which treatment would be best for your pet.

How long is treatment and will my pet require more than one cancer treatment?

Treatment varies greatly depending on the tumor type.

How much does cancer treatment cost?

Depending on the tumor type, cancer treatments can cost anywhere from $400 to $3,000.

What are common cancers in pets?

Common cancers in pets include skin cancers, cancer of the lymph nodes (lymphoma) and bone cancer.

What age are animals more are risk?

Middle-aged to older dogs are usually more at risk, but there are breed differences due to size: a 5-year-old Great Dane is considered old, while a 5-year-old toy poodle is still young. Also, animals as young as six months have been diagnosed with cancer.

How regularly should I take my pet to the vet for cancer check?

Annual physical examinations are appropriate for young animals, twice a year is recommended for older pets, but you should take your dog or cat to the veterinarian anytime you suspect a problem.

What breeds of cats and dogs are more at risk and why?

Golden retrievers tend to have a high rate of cancer, likely because of a genetic problem. No cat breeds are more at risk than any other. Other risks vary with the type of tumor. Large to giant breeds of dogs are more likely to be diagnosed with bone cancer. Fair skinned dogs -- and white cats -- that are out in the sun a lot are more likely to develop skin cancer.

-30-

For more information contact Ruthanne Chun at 785-532-4243 or 785-532-5690. 

October 2000