Let's face it, the thought of your sweet kitty friend ever developing feline cancer is terrible. Cancer in cats used to be a death sentence, but with recent advances in veterinary medicine, it may be possible for your cat to be with you for several more years.
 
The best way to protect your feline friend from this disease is to be knowledgeable about feline cancer symptoms.

Twelve Symptoms Of Feline Cancer

1. Losing weight, even though your kitty seems to be eating the same amount as ever.

2. Unusual lumps or swellings anywhere on your cat's body, especially if they're getting larger, or changing shape.

3. Swollen lymph nodes are a symptom of feline lymphoma. The lymph nodes behind the knees and under the jaws are easiest for cat owners to find.

4. Problems with eating or swallowing. Your feline companion may suffer from loss of appetite, too.

5. A strange discharge or unexplained bleeding from the gums, mouth, nose, penis, or vagina, or any other body orifice.

6. Chronic digestive problems, including vomiting or diarrhea.

7. Trouble breathing. Your kitty may also have a persistent, dry, non-productive cough, which can be a symptom of lung cancer.  

8. Bad breath may indicate oral cancer, although it's also a symptom of a sinus infection, too.

9. Straining to urinate or defecate.

10. Loss of stamina and general tiredness. Some pet owners mistakely think their pet is just getting older.

11. A sudden change in temperament, especially if your kitty suddenly gets grouchy and wants to be left alone. He may be in pain.

12. Your formerly friendly companion suddenly hides himself away. This is a survival mechanism among wild felines. A sick cat will hide from predators until it recovers.  

Check Your Kitty Often For Lumps

We all enjoy petting and stroking our feline companions. While you're at it, take the time to check for suspicious lumps on his back, legs, mouth, and under his neck. If you have a girl kitty, watch for lumps on her belly, which could be a symptom of feline breast cancer.

If you should find a lump, make note of the following:

• If it's soft or hard
• Where it's located
• If your kitty is uncomfortable when you touch it
• How it looks and smells. Does it have a bad odor? It is ulcerated, or oozing, or bleeding?

Any lump should be examined by your vet. Benign tumors in cats usually grow slowly and have well-defined edges, while malignant ones grow faster, and may cause bleeding or be painful for your pet.

Nobody likes the thought of their kitty ever getting cancer, but ignoring the situation won't help. The best way you can protect your feline companion from this disease is by knowing the symptoms. Treatment is more effective when cancer in cats is caught early.