A healthy pet is our number one priority as a pet parent. Our furry companions are members of our family, so we want to do anything and everything possible to keep them happy and healthy. Cancer is the leading cause of death in pets. Despite this fact, half of the cancers in our pets can be curable.
Since our pets don’t communicate like we do, it can be hard to see the signs of cancer in animals. If we keep a close eye on them and learn to recognize the signs of an illness, we could potentially be preventing a devastating fate to happen.
Here are 10 signs of cancer in pets:
Lumps, Bumps and Wounds
Similar to people, any lump or bump should be checked out. Any wound/sore that won’t heal is a red flag as well.
Odors
Foul odors from the mouth, ear or any body part. Tumors can be the cause of unpleasant smells.
Weight Loss and Changes in Appetite
An illness can be the route cause of either of these sudden changes. Or, if your pet is having difficulty eating, this can be a sign as well.
Coughing or difficulty breathing
This is not one to take lightly and should mean an immediate trip to the vet. Tumors in the lungs can cause these symptoms.
Limping and lameness
While sometimes this can be a pet “just getting old”, it can also mean cancer of the nerve, muscle, or bone.
Bathroom troubles
Diarrhea or straining to urinate/blood in the urine can be a cause of concern. These can be signs of cancer in the bladder or gastrointestinal tract.
Wounds/Sores that won’t heal
Some cancers can look like wounds/sores that won’t heal. Alternatively, a wound that won’t heal can be a sign that your pup’s immune system is off or that they are fighting off another infection.
Increased Drinking and Urinating
This can be a warning sign for a few different types of illnesses. Best to get this checked out to rule out anything.
Signs of Pain
Limping, lameness, or inability to do previous activities that were once possible can be a sign. Bone cancer is quite painful and can be shown this way.
Lower Energy Levels
If you notice your pet is lethargic and does not have the energy they once did, best to get them checked out.
