• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer

Vetted PetCare Blog

Advice and stories for pet owners and animal lovers

  • Preventative Health
  • Urgent Care
  • Behavioral Issues
  • Lifestyle & Local
  • Disease, Diet & Exercise
  • Common Questions
You are here: Home / Common Questions / 7 Common Signs of Cancer in Pets

7 Common Signs of Cancer in Pets

November 1, 2019 By Heather

7 Common Signs of Cancer in Pets

For most pet parents, “cancer” is a terrifying, confusing term. Cancer is an incredibly complex illness. Your pet’s risk of cancer depends on many factors, from their age to their lifestyle.

No two cases of canine or feline cancer present exactly the same way, but there are some warning signs commonly displayed by pets in the early- to mid-stages of cancer development. Here’s what to know.

1. Lumps or Bumps

One of the most unsettling things you can discover on your pet is an unexplained lump. More often than not, these lumps are benign, but it’s important to check your pet regularly for new growths. In some cases, they can be indicative of malignancy. If you find a lump that doesn’t quickly go away, reach out to your veterinarian for diagnostic testing.

2. Unexplained Weight Loss

A pet that suddenly starts noticeably losing weight should be examined by a veterinarian. Of course, weight loss doesn’t always indicate cancer, but there’s usually some underlying cause – from the physical to the psychological – that needs to be addressed. Cancer can cause weight loss in pets whose bodies are expending a lot of energy fighting the cancer itself.

3. Changes in Appetite

Often occurring hand-in-hand with weight loss, a lack of appetite in your pet can definitely be a sign something is amiss. Long-term appetite loss can cause myriad health effects and weaken your pet’s overall immune system. Lack of appetite, changes in appetite, and/or a sudden aversion to food are very frequently seen in pets with cancer, particularly in pets with neck or mouth cancers.

4. Unusual Odors

One of the best cancer detection tools you have at your disposal is actually your nose. Pets can be smelly, but an off-putting, unexplained odor coming from your pet’s mouth, eyes, ears, or anus can indicate some sort of cancer. Whether or not you suspect cancer, a foul odor should always be checked by a veterinarian to rule out infection or other physiological causes.

5. Limping or Stiffness

Consistent lameness, limping, and/or stiffness from an otherwise healthy pet can be a sign of blood or bone cancer. The risk is higher if the soreness seems unrelated to a particular activity or event such as waking up from a nap or a long walk. Remember that senior pets are highly likely to suffer from some amount of arthritis; whether you suspect arthritis, cancer, or some other cause for stiffness, a visit with your vet is in order.

6. Discharge

Discharge from any orifice of the body – the eyes, nose, mouth, anus, etc. – is always cause for concern. No matter what color the discharge, it’s indicative of something going on internally. Don’t forget that “discharge” isn’t limited to puss or clear fluids. Blood, diarrhea, and vomiting can all be considered discharged substances.

7. Lack of Stamina

Has your once-active pet become a bit of a couch potato? Although some decrease in energy levels is to be expected as your pet ages, a sudden lack of stamina can be indicative of a medical issue. If your pet can no longer walk as far, play as long, or recover as quickly after physical activity, it’s probably a good idea to have your vet run some diagnostic tests to rule out illnesses such as cancer.

None of these symptoms definitively point to cancer. At face value, they’re simply signs your pet needs a medical evaluation. If something feels “off,” ask your vet.

Make an In-Home Vet Appointment

Share this:

  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)

Filed Under: Common Questions, Preventative Health Tagged With: cancer, illness, symptoms

Before Footer

  • For many of us, the holidays are a great opportunity to spend some extra time with our pets. However, spending more time with your dog over the holidays might mean that your pup has to come with you to your holiday destination.
Traveling with a dog by car can be tricky. But don't worry---we've got the tips you need to make it a safe (& fun) experience for all.
🔗 Tap the link in our bio to learn how to help your dog feel comfortable riding in a car.
  • What do you think your pets dream about? 🤔
-
📸 by @tinytim_momo_ava_nougat
  • Navigating the holidays with a pet can be HARD.
🤔 Can they eat this? Is this plant dangerous? Which decorations are safe?
🎁 Don't worry--we've got everything you need to know to keep you and your pet safe (and sane) this holiday season.
🔗 Tap the link in our bio for the ultimate guide to surviving the holidays with a pet.
  • It's peak holiday baking season. Does your pet keep a close watch over the oven this time of year? Ignore those begging eyes and keep this holiday spice far away from your pets.
  • If @Spotify had a #2019Wrapped for your dog, what would your dog's top nap spots be?

Footer

Get In Touch

  • Find a Mobile Vet
  • Tel: (833) 228-8122
  • hello@vettedpetcare.com
vetted logo

© 2019 Vetted PetCare Inc.

Privacy Policy