signs of cancer in pets

February is National Cancer Prevention Month, and this is a good time to learn the signs of cancer in dogs and cats. Know what to look out for to help get your pet treatment as early as possible.  
 
Reminder: If your pet is experiencing any of the signs below, it doesn’t mean they have cancer. But if you notice any of them, it’s important to bring your pet to their veterinarian for an evaluation and tests, if needed. 
 

Pérdida de peso 

If you notice rapid weight loss in your pet, especially if there have been no changes to their diet or lifestyle, it could mean they’re experiencing a health issue such as cancer.

Cancer can cause metabolism changes, pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or decreased absorption of nutrients, which can all contribute to weight loss.  
 

Decreased interest in food and/or diarrhea or vomiting  

Certain types of cancer, not limited to oral or digestive cancers, can interfere with your pet’s ability to eat or keep food in. Other types of cancer often inhibit your pet’s appetite.

If you notice your pet struggling to eat, not eating as much as usual, turning their nose up to food, or having persistent vomiting or diarrhea, monitor their actions closely so you can describe what’s going on with their veterinarian.   
 

Lumps, bumps, masses, discolored skin, and wounds that won’t heal

You’re petting your dog or cat and suddenly your hand grazes over a lump — your reaction might be, “Oh my gosh, what is it?” While lumps and bumps are common in dogs and cats and can be as innocent as a wart, callus, or even a piece of gum stuck in their fur, they could occasionally be more concerning.

Cancer growths can be aggressive, so please schedule an appointment with your veterinarian so your pet can be evaluated. Also, if you notice a wound on your pet that is not healing, that could potentially be a sign of cancer as well.   
 

Hinchazón 

If you notice swelling in your pet’s abdomen, legs, or near their lymph nodes, it’s a good idea to get them checked out. Not sure what a swollen lymph node looks like? Typically, it’s a firm swelling found near the neck, chest, armpits, knees, or groin. There are several reasons why a dog’s or cat’s lymph nodes swell, including infections, allergies, autoimmune diseases, or cancer.

Lymphoma is the most common cancer to affect the lymph nodes in pets, but other cancers can cause lymph nodes to swell too. If you notice your dog’s or cat’s abdomen is swollen, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible. While a swollen abdomen doesn’t necessarily mean cancer, it could be another concerning issue like fluid accumulation due to heart failure or liver disease, an internal injury, or even just weight gain.  

 

Dificultad para respirar  

There are several reasons why your dog or cat might be struggling to breathe, including a respiratory infection, heart problems, lung disease, allergies, trauma, airway obstruction, or cancer.

Regardless of what it is, your pet must be seen immediately to rule out anything serious. 
 

Twice-yearly comprehensive exams 

At Banfield, we recommend twice-yearly comprehensive exams so your pet’s veterinary team can keep tabs on your pet’s overall health. This is also a great opportunity for you to ask your veterinarian questions or mention any changes you’ve noticed. Our Optimum Wellness Plans®️ include these twice-yearly exams, as well as vaccinations, once-a-year diagnostic testing, 24/7 Pet Chat™️, and more.

Learn more about our amazing Optimum Wellness Plans here.