Lung cancer in cats: symptoms, diagnosis, treatment

5388Pavel

Lung metastases in cats are small neoplasms that appear as a result of cancer affecting the mammary glands, liver, kidneys, stomach or soft tissues. These small tumors can metastasize in the lungs, as well as in the lymphatic system, first of all, and then they continue to spread throughout the body. Most often, oncology (and as a result, the spread of metastases to the lungs) appears in old cats and those that have not been sterilized.

When a cat develops tumors, called metastases, the prognosis for recovery and long life is poor. In such a state, it is almost impossible to treat an animal, but you should simply alleviate its condition. How long a pet will live in such a situation depends on its general condition and the rate of tumor growth. In most cases, the period ranges from 1 month to a year. Cancer can no longer be defeated.

If the cat is in severe pain and the metastases are rapidly increasing, the question of euthanasia is raised to stop the suffering. This is more humane than artificially prolonging the animal’s period of pain, which is almost impossible to relieve. Lung cancer is not metastasis. The owner decides what to do in a particular case. The veterinarian can only give his opinion. Not only cats, but also dogs can suffer from cancer with metastases.

Main symptoms

Basically, the symptoms are related to the place where the metastases are localized in the lungs. But there are common manifestations, these include:

Loss of appetite. As a result of intoxication of the body, the animal is able to refuse food. This can lead to a lot of weight loss.
Dullness of the coat. Due to the fact that the fight against cancer is underway, the body does not receive enough vitamins and nutrients. For this reason, the shade of the fur changes and it loses its own attractiveness.
Apathetic state. The pet's condition noticeably worsens, drowsiness, prolonged sitting in one place, and loss of activity are observed.
Swelling. Occurs due to changes in blood composition and the effect of metastases on blood vessels.
Bleeding wounds. With the development of the disease, each damage to the skin heals more slowly than in healthy animals.
Difficulty breathing and cough. These symptoms form shortness of breath, hoarseness, hoarseness, and the cat coughs loudly.
Bad breath. Decay processes occur in the lungs, which causes the appearance of such a feature.

To prevent the disease from developing into an advanced form, it is necessary to regularly palpate the mammary glands for the presence of lumps.
Metastases in a cat appear when the cancer develops rapidly. To avoid these tumors, it is recommended to regularly examine and palpate your furry pet’s mammary glands and lymph nodes. If lumps are found on the body and symptoms arise, it is necessary to urgently take the cat to a veterinary clinic to see a specialist. If cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, when metastases have not yet formed in the lungs, the disease can be cured.

This is interesting: What to do if a cat has a lump on its stomach?

What do metastases look like in lung tissue?

Pulmonary metastases can be determined using radiographic diagnostics.

In the images, secondary lesions appear in nodular, mixed and diffuse lymphatic forms. Nodular lesions are multiple or solitary formations. Solitary are clearly defined round nodes that are usually located in the basal structures. Solitary metastases are similar to primary lesions. Typically, pulmonary metastasis manifests itself in a focal form, although large-nodular variants also occur. Metastatic tumors are often accompanied by lymphangitis, so characteristic symptoms begin to appear in the early stages. If metastatic formations are pseudopneumatic in nature, then the cord pattern changes, appearing on x-rays in the form of linear thin compactions. Metastasis to the pleural zone resembles pleurisy. The X-ray image shows a massive effusion and tuberous plate growths. As a result of oncological processes in the pleura, pulmonary insufficiency develops, low-grade fever is constantly present, and the general condition of the cancer patient worsens.

How is it diagnosed?

If the pathology is detected early by the cat owner, the prognosis is more favorable. For this reason, it is recommended to conduct a series of studies and analyzes aimed at identifying the location of metastases and detecting the primary tumor. The following diagnostic methods are used:

Blood and urine examination. These tests can show the stage of development of the disease and its severity.
Ultrasound and X-ray. They are performed on the chest and abdominal cavity. Based on the research results, the doctor sets the course of treatment. The methods make it possible to determine the location of metastases, their size and see a picture of the lungs.
Puncture. Analysis is needed to establish the nature of the formations. After the conclusion of the cytological examination, further diagnostics are prescribed to detect the primary focus of the cancer.

How long do cats with lung metastases live?

The life expectancy of cancer metastases is influenced by a number of factors:

Possibility of removing the primary tumor.
Immune activity.
Correctly selected therapy.

Animals that are promptly diagnosed and treated have a guarded prognosis. After a short recovery period, a return to the previous lifestyle is possible, however, as a rule, sooner or later the tumor process makes itself felt again.

If the process is in late stages, and removal and chemotherapy are not practical, then palliative measures are taken to improve the quality of life. In such cases, a cat with lung metastases lives on average for about a year. When the process is neglected, there is a possibility of developing cancerous pleurisy, which leads to death within 1-2 months.

How to cure the disease?

If oncology is detected in a timely manner, surgical intervention is performed to remove the tumor.

After receiving the examination results and making an accurate diagnosis, the veterinarian decides what type of treatment to prescribe: surgical or medicinal. If there is a real possibility of removing the cancerous tumor, surgery is performed, after which all that remains is radiation or chemotherapy. If it is impossible to get rid of this pathology, special therapeutic therapy is prescribed. It is based on the administration of expectorant medications to animals. The presence of metastases in the lungs is considered a severe course of the disease, which often ends in the rapid death of a furry animal.

Treatment

Therapeutic measures depend on the stage of the cancer process, the size and number of metastases, and the type of primary tumor. Most often, surgical removal of the original lesion is performed, followed by radiation and chemotherapy for metastases.

If the primary tumor cannot be treated surgically, supportive treatment is performed. Surgical correction of airway patency and the use of antibiotics in case of infection are possible. In some cases, veterinarians recommend euthanizing the animal.

Causes of cancer

Today, scientists have not fully figured out the reasons for the appearance of tumor formations in pets. However, it has been noticed that every year the growth of pathology in cats and dogs is progressing. The main reasons for its appearance are the following factors:

Regular and abundant use of chemicals in everyday life. When using aggressive cleaning products, animals inhale fumes, which harm the body and lead to the development of cancer.
Wrong and inappropriate nutrition . The use of cheap feed with a large number of preservatives leads to mutations in cells and the development of cancerous tumors.
Genetic predisposition . Pets get cancer if someone in their family has had similar diseases.
Obesity. Oncology is provoked by poor nutrition and developed obesity.
Hormonal imbalance.
Frequent infections, presence of parasites.
Stress.
Volvulus of a lung lobe.

Cancer is most common in adult cats. But every year oncology is becoming significantly younger.

Preventive measures

It is impossible to prevent the formation of cancer cells, therefore it is necessary to follow generally accepted rules of prevention. Thus, with their help it is possible to protect the animal’s body from the formation of favorable conditions for the occurrence and development of the disease. First of all, veterinarians advise sterilizing your pet, preferably from a young age, before the process of puberty begins. Regular medical examination and vaccination are mandatory. It is also recommended to carefully study the composition of cat food and do not suddenly replace it with another. An effective preventive measure would be a complete abstinence from hormonal pills, which provokes the development of tumors throughout the cat’s body.

Symptoms

Oncological disease with metastases in the liver, stomach and mammary glands always affects the general condition of pets. The pathology is accompanied by the following symptoms:

Impaired appetite. Due to intoxication of the body, the animal refuses food, which leads to excessive thinness and cancer cachexia.
Changes in coat structure . The pet's fur becomes rough and disheveled. This occurs as a result of a lack of vitamins and nutrients in the body.
Apathy . The development of metastases leads to excessive fatigue, lethargy and drowsiness. The cat stops playing and often sits in one place.
Swelling . Metastasis affects changes in the chemical composition of the blood. This leads to serious changes in the functioning of blood vessels and the appearance of swelling.
Non-healing wounds. As cancer develops, any damage to the animal takes a long time to heal.
Breathing problems. Metastasis causes shortness of breath and cough. Many owners may notice that the animal is breathing heavily and also makes subtle wheezing sounds during sleep.
Smell from the mouth. With cancer, chemical breakdown occurs in the lungs, which causes bad breath.

Also, with metastasis, the pet owner may find tumor formations in the area of the lymph nodes. This indicates the progression of the disease and the need for urgent treatment.

This is interesting: What to do if a cat has a miscarriage?

Symptoms of metastases

Many symptoms of the disease are associated with the location of metastases in the lungs. However, there are also general manifestations that occur if there is damage to the lungs by metastases. Symptoms that appear regardless of the location of tumors in the lungs include :

loss of apatite – it occurs due to general intoxication of the animal’s body against the background of the oncological process. As a result, the pet develops exhaustion in a short time, and then cancer cachexia;
deterioration in the condition of the coat - in this case, the cat looks disheveled. Her fur is dull and brittle. The phenomenon is associated with the fact that the body is maximally weakened by the fight against the pathological process, and digestion against the background of the disease is impaired, and the tissues do not receive the required amount of nutrients;
depressed state and weakness - the pet begins to sleep for a very long time, it completely loses interest in games and, even when not sleeping, sits in one place for a long time without movement or activity. The more an organ is affected by neoplasms, the faster weakness appears;
edema, including pulmonary edema, which is manifested by symptoms of acute respiratory failure - the condition in this case is critical, and it is extremely rarely possible to stabilize it. If there is an accumulation of fluid in a cat’s lungs, then it usually dies within the next day, rarely two. If you take an x-ray at this moment, the result will immediately show an accumulation of fluid. This diagnosis is used, and only, if there is a suspicion of the appearance of tumors in the lung tissue;
very long healing of any damage - appears due to the fact that due to improper functioning of the lungs, the body does not receive enough oxygen, as a result of which the ability to regenerate is reduced;
putrid odor from the mouth - appears due to the fact that processes of tissue decay occur in the lungs. The gases that are released through the respiratory tract have a strong odor;
deterioration of breathing - a sick animal experiences wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing. As the disease progresses, it becomes gurgling and almost constant. A cat coughs almost constantly with metastases.

Metastases in the lungs in cats appear after the cancer process has been developing in the animal’s body for some time. To prevent this condition, it is necessary to regularly feel the mammary glands and lymph nodes of your pets. If even minor seals are detected there, you should urgently show the animal to a veterinarian. When cancer is detected at an early stage before metastases occur, the prognosis is quite favorable.

Types of tumors

Not a single animal is immune from transformation in the body. Tumors that appear are divided into two types: benign and malignant. What can be said about benign:

They do not cause pain.
They are characterized by slow growth.
They do not affect the general condition of the cat or the functioning of its internal organs.
Not accompanied by metastasis.

Benign neoplasms are treated with medication and surgery. After therapy, recovery occurs. In the case of a malignant tumor, the body undergoes the following transformations:

Accelerated growth of cancer cells.
The appearance of bleeding.
Deterioration in the functioning of internal organs.
Development of metastases.
The appearance of unbearable pain.
Deterioration of the pet's general condition.

Such diseases are treated and give a favorable prognosis only in the first stages, when the process of metastasis has not yet begun. In advanced cases, the chances of recovery are significantly low.

The most common types of pathologies found in pets are:

Lymphoma. Develops due to the leukemia virus. Affects the digestive system of a sick animal. Lymphoma can be detected by constant weakness, sudden weight loss and loss of appetite.
Breast cancer. Mammary cancer also occurs in unsterilized animals. The disease develops rapidly, at stage 2 it begins to metastasize to neighboring organs, and at stage 3 it affects almost the entire body. At the initial stage, the animal develops weakness, drowsiness, loss of appetite, and the formation of lumps in the chest area.
Abdominal cancer . One of the most complex pathologies, which is difficult to diagnose and treat. In the first stages, the disease practically does not give clear symptoms; in other cases, the pet develops regular vomiting, diarrhea, bloating and cramps.
Lymphosarcoma. One of the most dangerous types of tumor. It occurs in both adult and young cats. Lymphosarcoma affects the lymphatic system and is also dangerous for humans. Through direct contact, an animal can infect its owner.

A distinctive feature of the disease is the absence of symptoms, both at stage 1 and stage 2 . Signs of lymphosarcoma may appear spontaneously and gain intensity within 1 week.

To prevent the development of the disease, it is necessary to undergo a preventive examination every six months. Today, every owner can vaccinate their cat, since a vaccine against lymphosarcoma has already been developed.

Lung cancer is considered a less common disease. However, this does not negate its severity and difficult diagnosis. Experts believe that you can count on a positive prognosis if you consult a doctor at stages 1 and 2, when the process of metastasis has not begun in the body.

ATTENTION! In other cases, the prognosis is disappointing - damage to internal organs as a result of cell mutation leads to death.

Cancer in cats and dogs. Interview with an oncologist

August 7, 2013

At the Biocontrol clinic forum, increasingly concerned dog and cat owners are seeking advice on cancer issues. We talked with veterinarian, leading oncologist of the clinic, candidate of biological sciences Alexander Aleksandrovich Shimshirt, and asked him the most frequently asked questions from owners.

When should pet owners sound the alarm if they suspect cancer? How does cancer manifest in cats and cancer in dogs? What are the symptoms?

In fact, for the owner of any animal, cat or dog, there must be a guideline. This guideline for concern is everything that suddenly appears in the animal, is abnormal and does not grow symmetrically on the body. Everything that grows quickly, that changes over a short period of time, that has signs of inflammation - swollen, hot, painful. All this requires control and mandatory inspection by a specialist.

Regarding a specific tumor. In males, after reaching a certain age, it is necessary to monitor the testes, control everything related to urination and the prostate gland. Females have mammary glands. Ideally, from an oncological point of view, as in a person after forty years, after the animal reaches the age of six, it is advisable to undergo a routine examination every six months. Blood tests, ultrasound, general examination, examination of the mammary gland in females.

What are the most common tumors or neoplasms you identify?

In the first place are neoplasms of the skin, mammary glands, and tumors of the oral cavity.

Cases of neoplasms after vaccination have become more frequent. What is this connected with?

This problem is very relevant, especially for cats. A chronic inflammatory process, when it persists for a long time, transforms into tumors (tissue features). If after vaccination the granuloma (lump) exists for more than two months and its size is more than two centimeters, it is recommended to surgically remove it. Even if the inflammation is local and the neoplasm itself is benign. Complications after vaccination are more common in cats. Dogs also have a risk of developing post-vaccination sarcoma, but it is not as great. How to prevent it? Immediately show the animal to the doctor, go with any neoplasm. If something bothers you, if you notice something and it’s still small, show it to your doctor. It's a lipoma or not a lipoma - let the oncologist find out. The sooner you notice this and contact a specialist, the more likely it is that the doctor will help.

Is histology and tumor biopsy always required?

The choice of cyto or histo - this issue is decided by the doctor. For example, in a situation where there is already inflammation or there are changes in the skin, a biopsy is not advisable. But I repeat - only a doctor can assess the place where the tumor is located and, guided by his practical experience, offer solutions. There are tumors when it is preferable to take a biopsy from a lymph node rather than from a neoplasm, for example, in the case of melanoma. If the melanoma is actively growing and ulcerated, then in order not to seed everything around with its cells, so as not to cause more pronounced inflammation, we take a biopsy from a regional lymph node. This way we will not “disturb” the primary focus. And then we answer the question: is the lymph node affected? This is important, since the answer to this question will help us determine the stage of the tumor process.

Owners often describe situations where swelling occurs after tooth loss or extraction. Should I be afraid to bring animals for scheduled removal?

It happens that a tumor grows along the dental alveolus and, by and large, this tumor itself pushes out the tooth. So here you need to understand what was primary – the tumor or the prolapse. If an animal spontaneously loses a molar, or if a tooth needs to be removed and the doctor is confused about something, then a piece of tissue is taken from the tooth socket for histological examination. The best way to prevent such problems is to prevent diseases of the oral cavity (gingivitis, periodontitis): regular examination, sanitation of the oral cavity, monitoring dental health.

Is osteosarcoma common?

Osteosarcoma is actually not that common. According to statistics, there is one dog in ten thousand. The fact is that this tumor is very aggressive. And the problem of osteosarcoma itself worries people greatly and is often mentioned on the Internet and in specialized literature. That's why she's popular.

Is sterilization a reliable cancer preventative? Is ovarian cancer and subsequent neutering a standard situation for cancer in cats?

To some extent, castration can also be included here. In males, after castration, the problem with the prostate gland goes away, and the possibility of developing a skin tumor, which in males is hormone-dependent (the so-called adenoma of the hepatoid glands), is reduced. In females, the mammary gland is at risk. Ovarian cysts, pyometra - there is, of course, only one solution - sterilization. Both dogs and cats. It is believed that spaying cats before their first heat significantly prevents both mammary and ovarian cancer. If the animal is not planned for reproduction, then after 6 years, both females and males are recommended to undergo sterilization and, accordingly, castration.

The animal is older than six years. What to do with the tumor? Treat or leave the animal to live out its life? Or is it still euthanasia?

There are situations in which surgery is not recommended, but only a doctor can decide this. The concept of “oncological disease” is very broad, and the development of tumor processes is sometimes unpredictable. The tactics of treatment and management of the patient are chosen by a specialist after examination. Tumors are different and diverse, they behave the same way. There are general rules, but treatment tactics are chosen individually. There is no need to hack rashly, you need to get research results. An important point is that by this age animals already have a certain number of chronic diseases. Yes, there are situations when you don’t need to do anything radical. Again, cats are different. One feels great at 12 years old, and the other one comes - and at 12 years old she is dehydrated, can barely walk, has chronic kidney failure and breast cancer. Such a cat cannot be treated urgently; even if the tumor is removed, it will not live longer. The main goal of treating a cancer patient is not to achieve an oncological result, not to “cure the tumor.” The main task is to treat the patient with the tumor. And here the question is this: a few months of relatively quality life or a few months of torment or suffering? Here a person already has a choice. For a veterinary oncologist, the primary task is to provide the animal with such therapy so that it can live its last days well.

What recommendations can you give to all owners? How to protect yourself from or recover from cancer?

Timely clinical examination, examinations by a doctor, an attempt to catch the disease at the initial stage. After all, curing cancer is a relative matter. Often, especially in serious stages, it is almost impossible to recover completely. We slow down, stop the process, pause, suppress, in a word, we do everything to ensure that the remaining life of the patient passes well.

What is the life expectancy of animals with cancer?

Life expectancy depends on the type of tumor process, on the type of tumor itself. There are wonderful stories - they come with blood cancer, you prescribe prednisolone - and everything goes away. Or sometimes patients undergo chemotherapy and live happily, but then they come back with another disease, for example, a parasitic one, and are already in a dying state. There are things that also do not depend on us. No, there is no warranty on animals, these are not household appliances. Therefore, we need to look at things realistically.

Radiation and chemotherapy are considered the “heavy guns” against cancer. Many owners immediately ask for such treatment. Should everyone be irradiated and undergo chemotherapy courses?

Owners must understand that this is very serious. And constant medical supervision, constant examinations and consultations are required. The listed methods are additional therapy when we are no longer in the initial stages of the disease. In such situations, the owner needs to make a decision - to go to the end or not to go. Simply because there are no absolute guarantees of how the tumor will behave. And if you decide to go all the way, then you must scrupulously follow the recommendations and prescriptions of your doctor, see your doctor regularly and believe in the good!

comments 322

Eldar Knar (05/07/2018 at 13:04): The cat has breast cancer. Ceftriaxone was prescribed. What is the point of this injection and is it necessary?

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Irina (06.27.2018 at 21:21): The cat is suspected of having lymphoma. Can the diagnosis be confirmed or refuted using tumor markers?

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Natalia (09/05/2018 at 08:52): a cat (2.5 years old) was diagnosed after an x-ray with lysis of the radial and humeral bones of the wrist of the front paw. He has been limping for six months, and now he’s just been carrying his paw for a month. I’m giving Flexoprofen for 0.2 weeks, then 2 weeks . in a day. What are the forecasts? The cat is a beloved family member. Let's go to the end. Thank you in advance.

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Vladimir (01.10.2018 at 13:05): Good afternoon. Labrador dog, 11 years 8 months. A month ago, a tumor was discovered on the upper gum on the outside and behind the teeth on the roof of the mouth. The external tumor on the gum was removed. It is not possible to remove on the palate, because it's very deep there. The material was sent for analysis. Conclusion: Macro: three fragments of tissue, with a diameter of 1 to 1.5 cm, elastic, gray when cut, homogeneous. Micro: tissue fragments with complexes of ulcerating squamous cell carcinoma. About 10 days after removal, the tumor came out again, it was festering and bleeding. The dog lives in an apartment where there are two small children. Now we constantly look after the dog, washing the floor in places where pus and blood have come into contact. Does it make sense to fight this? How feasible is treatment?

Reply | to write a message

Yulia (11/14/2018 at 01:54): The dog is a 12-year-old Labrador male, his nipples are swollen and the discharge from one nipple is given by an antibiotic, but it doesn’t really help. Please tell me what to do and maybe it’s cancer or something else. They took a blood test and there is an inflammatory process. They prescribed an antibiotic and gave me a puncture. When we visited the doctor, the nipples were all fine and even then there was an inflammatory process. Could this be mammary cancer in a male dog? and what are the symptoms of mammary cancer in dogs?

Reply | to write a message

souricoff

Reply | to write a message

Elena (12/02/2018 at 08:15): Hello! The cat is 14 years old, breast cancer, a huge lump. When I contacted him, the doctor said that he couldn’t help. The question is, how do you know if it bothers her? He behaves normally, eats well, goes to the litter box, everything is as usual. But the tumor began to bleed. We can’t make a decision, tell me what to do? Maybe she's in a lot of pain? Although it doesn’t show it in any way.

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Olesya (02/04/2019 at 21:21): Hello! I have a non-standard question, not related to cats. There are no veterinary oncologists in our city. My rat was diagnosed with a tumor on his thigh, which extends from some organ (there is a cord, at least that’s what the veterinarian called it). They took him for histology, the tumor was malignant. The operation cannot be performed because the rat is very old. Is it possible to somehow alleviate the animal’s condition so that the rat can live a full life?

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Angelica (02/05/2019 at 23:09): Hello! My cat is almost 16 years old. She has already undergone 2 operations to remove the tumor. Now she has tumors again. An x-ray showed that the lungs and possibly the liver were slightly affected. Wounds appear on the front paw, next to the tumor, the cat tries to lick it. I began to eat poorly, although I came up to the bowl and asked. The doctor advised me not to have surgery, this would accelerate the growth of the tumor. Is it correct? How to support an animal?

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Alexey (03/21/2019 at 14:10): Hello! The cat is 16 years old. A month ago he felt fine. Stopped eating. An ultrasound scan diagnosed inflammation of the pancreas. After an X-ray of the lungs, tumors were found in the lungs, sometimes twitching. He began to limp, his front paw hurt in the area of the claws. What to do???

Reply | to write a message

Alexey (03/21/2019 at 14:58): Hello! The cat is 16 years old. A month ago he felt fine. Stopped eating. An ultrasound scan diagnosed inflammation of the pancreas. After an X-ray of the lungs, tumors were found in the lungs, sometimes twitching. He began to limp, his front paw hurt in the area of the claws. What to do??? AST 222, here 200, creatinine 146, alpha amylase 2314, urea/creatinine 21

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Irina (03/27/2019 at 16:22): The cat is 18 years old, she started bleeding little by little, they did an ultrasound, she was diagnosed with urinary cancer, they said it was inoperable. Maybe we can do something, I’m crying, they put in a catheter, but it comes out and she’s in a lot of pain, she’s screaming.

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Maria (04/03/2019 at 20:44): Is this not a typo? “If the animal is not planned for reproduction, then after 6 years, both females and males are recommended to be sterilized and, accordingly, castrated.”

Reply | to write a message

Marina (12/04/2019 at 18:06): Good afternoon! The cat is 4 years old, fell ill 4 months ago, wheezing appeared, as if squelching in the nose, began to sneeze, as if something was bothering her nose. The X-ray did not reveal any foreign bodies; the bronchial pattern was calm and even; during intubation, pus was found in the nasopharynx. Complete blood test is normal, (Invitro) respiratory large PCR profile - not detected. Cytological examination: The squamous nuclear epithelium is located in layers. The YCI is not displaced. Most cells have rough chromatin. Neutrophils from 0 to solid fields. Bacilli (phagocytosis)+. Conclusion: the cytological picture is most consistent with neutrophilic inflammation caused by m/o. Amoxiclav was prescribed 250 mg 1/5 per day, washed with miramistin for 10 days, after stopping treatment a week later the symptoms resumed, then metipred 4 mg - 1/8 and miramistin were prescribed for 10 days, while we were treating the symptoms disappeared, after 5 days everything resumed. What could this be, help me figure out what to do next, I’m afraid I’ll miss time. Thank you in advance.

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Elena (13.01.2020 at 14:52): Good afternoon. Tell me, the dog has had seizures since he was 2 years old. We did all the ultrasounds, everything is normal. Since we don’t have MRI in our city, the doctor came to the conclusion that it was brain cancer. We have been living on Corvalol for 4 years. 5-6 tablets per day. Attacks 1-2 times a month with varying degrees of progression. Usually the hind legs begin to cramp, then all the muscles of the body become completely tense, the head is thrown to the side, and the eyes protrude. He remains in this position for 3 to 10 minutes, then begins to relax. When the dose of Corvalol is reduced, attacks become more frequent. There are no other changes in the dog's behavior. In what way, besides MRI, can one check for brain cancer, and how to alleviate the animal’s condition. Thanks for the answer.

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Elena (02/18/2021 at 10:26 pm): Our dog has similar signs as AAS, seizures since childhood, we examined and did an MRI, found nothing, came to the conclusion that this is a type of epilepsy...

Reply | to write a message

Maria Ivanovna (03/15/2020 at 11:25): The cat is 14 years old, I noticed that he was starting to lose weight and was eating poorly, we went to the veterinary hospital in Noginsk, they found a tumor under the tongue and deep in the throat, they took histology from under the tongue and did not find cancer, but immediately before the histology result Chemotherapy was prescribed, but after receiving tests, the chemotherapy was canceled. We went to Balashikha and didn’t hear anything good, then they called and told us to give the medicine meloxidil. The cat stopped eating immediately after chemotherapy, I feed him with a syringe several times a day after meals, I give him Monclavin, his saliva has decreased. He wants to eat, sits by the cup but doesn’t eat... What should I do??? They injected me with antibiotics and much more. Sincerely

Reply | to write a message

Marina (04/23/2020 at 18:37): Hello. The cat has a rather large lump on his side. The veterinary clinic said it was a tumor. They didn’t take any tests or do anything. What to do? What tests should I take? What treatment should be given? If it’s cancer, as they said at the clinic, then what should we do to alleviate the cat’s condition? The cat is still young. Sphinx 8 years old.

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Natalya (06/04/2020 at 23:27): Hello! A cat (13 years old) was diagnosed with the development of tartar and on the right where the 6th tooth was, it fell out and there was abnormal growth of the gums. There was also a lump in the right hind paw (I thought it was from injections since they injected oil preparations a year before this incident). They took tests and, under anesthesia, the stone was removed and the gums were excised. But after 10 days, the same meat that was cut grew back. At first the cat ate somehow, then he vomited 2 times and on the 10th day his appetite decreased (possibly due to pain in the gums), in 10 days the cat lost 500 grams of weight. A preliminary diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma is made, and we go for cytology under ultrasound. What is the cat's prognosis, please?

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Karina (07/02/2020 at 11:31): Good afternoon! My cat is 13 years old and has no health complaints. I noticed that my eyes became like lenses, as if you were looking into a children's kaleidoscope. I have always associated such eyes with cancer. Is this true or are these “age-related” eyes?

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Irina (07/02/2020 at 17:33): Hello. The cat is 13.5 years old. The veterinary clinic made a preliminary diagnosis of an abdominal tumor. The third day we give injections. The cat is in great pain and cannot even sleep. The doctor said that she would not be able to endure the operation at this age; there was no cure, and our cat would survive. They advised me to inject the painkiller analgin or baralgin. Tell me, what are the chances and forecasts? How much can painkillers dull the pain?

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Natalya (07/02/2020 at 20:12): Good evening. The cat is 4 years old, outbred. He began to eat poorly, lethargy, they did an ultrasound of the abdominal cavity - the spleen is 8.7 mm enlarged, the structure is not homogeneous, there is no fluid in the abdominal cavity, creatine - 256, urea - 38, glucose / - 6, alkaline photophase / 55, alt - 77. Pressure/130 to 80. Temperature - 37.3. He eats on his own, goes to the toilet, but is lethargic, the diagnosis is leukemia.

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Galina (07/03/2020 at 20:20): hello. I have a 16-year-old cat, diagnosed with nephropathy, signs of the disease appeared 2 months ago, ultrasound dated June 19, 2020: Differential chronic nephropathy. Sludge in the stomach. The left kidney is enlarged to a size of 4.3x3.7. The echogenicity of the cortical layer is increased, the capsule is thickened, heterogeneous, the echogenicity is mixed. Urea 12.3. Protein in urine 5.0 In blood creatinine 291.6 Protein 64.7. Received treatment: droppers: Ringer's solution, mexidol, dexymetazole, B12, Sinulox, Canephron, Enteros gel, Renal Advance were not taken, not on sale. After the IV drips I ate. After 3 days he does not eat or drink. What can help the cat survive at least a little. To have an appetite. Please help with the answer. I force feed him

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Aizhan (21.07.2020 at 20:51): Hello, the cat is 17 years old, a tumor on both nipples, 2 lumps have already opened, we are chasing, we are treating with chlorhexidine, we wanted to operate, but the doctor said that there are metastases throughout the lung and she will not survive, can we insist for surgery? Is it possible that the cat will survive it? I feel very sorry for the cat; he doesn’t eat soft dry food anymore. I started going to the toilet often when I slept.

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Margarita (08/19/2020 at 07:31 pm): Hello, my 15-year-old cat’s eyes were red and he stopped eating. I went to the clinic and took a smear, and the next day they said that he has cancer of the penis. How can this be without a blood test and Ultrasound

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Irina (08/27/2020 at 07:15 pm): Good evening. Kitten girl - up to a year (about 11 months. No breed) The area around the nipples (all) seems to have “swelled” a little. It looks like small swellings, but not dense, quite soft, but palpable. They appeared just the other day, because I take them in my hands all the time, but I just noticed deviations. The animal is playful, runs around like crazy, eats, drinks, goes to the toilet. Please tell me what is the likelihood of tumors? Or are there some age-related (hormonal) changes in the process of maturation, and is this the norm? (We won’t see the vet until next week) Thank you for your attention

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Nikolay (09.10.2020 at 21:20): Hello. A 17-year-old cat was diagnosed with mammary cancer. Is it possible to maintain the condition without surgery to alleviate the condition and prolong the life of the animal? We are afraid that the operation will not be postponed. The tumor has already opened.

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Elena (09.23.2020 at 00:14): Good afternoon, the dog is 8 years old, an ultrasound showed multiple neoplasms of the mesentery, where to start? From a biopsy?

Reply | to write a message

Biocontrol

Reply | to write a message

Olga (09.12.2020 at 22:50): Animal aged 6 years. Seriously?))) I have a 17-year-old cat, 5 mammary gland surgeries, the last one six months ago, coming out of anesthesia, thin, but quite active for her immodest. It is strange to define 6-8 years as the age of inoperable old age. It’s clear that animals weren’t treated before, so they didn’t live long, but now with veterinary control, good anesthesia and a separate anesthesiologist, if the heart and kidney tests allow it, then why not?

Reply | to write a message

Click to cancel reply.

← Previously 4

Classification of the disease by stages

Lung neoplasia is divided into several stages:

First. At this time, a small tumor appears in the body, reaching 1 cm in size. At the first stage, the animal does not experience pain and the development of metastases. Pet owners can count on their removal.
Second. The disease progresses, affects the lymphatic system, thereby promoting the appearance of metastases in the stomach, liver and mammary glands.
Third. The pathology continues to progress. Metastases appear in almost all internal organs of the cat. When you feel her body, you can notice dense bumps that develop as a result of cell mutation. During this period, the animal experiences severe pain, which is poorly blocked by painkillers.
Fourth. The most serious and dangerous stage, which in 98% of cases results in death.

In the early stages, you can count on recovery after surgical and drug treatment.

ATTENTION! Do not forget that if your cat is not properly cared for, the risk of a relapse of the disease increases. To prevent it, you need to carefully monitor your beloved pet’s diet, lifestyle and health.

Stage 4 cancer

The last stage of the oncological process in the lungs is characterized by multiple metastases, leading to atrophy and death of vital tissues and organs: kidneys, intestines, liver. Often, papillomavirus or melanoma is additionally added, thereby aggravating the course of malignant processes in the body.

The tumor in the lungs progresses, begins to grow if the patient has other long-standing chronic ailments and is difficult to treat. With stage 4 cancer, the inferior vena cava is compressed due to decreased blood flow, angina develops, the digestion process is disrupted, and the bones become vulnerable and fragile.

This means that stage 4 lung cancer has metastasized and symptoms appear depending on in which organ the tumor-like foci progress.

Today, many special antitumor drugs are known that can relieve severe pain in a patient, stop the growth of cancer cells, thereby improving the quality of life of the sick, providing them with mental and physical peace for at least several years to come.

Diagnostics

Veterinarians recommend immediately contacting a doctor if you detect any negative signs indicating the development of a tumor in a cat. To clarify the situation, the following diagnostic procedures are used:

General analysis of urine and blood, complete blood count and biochemical. These studies show the presence of changes in the body and the level of severity of the disease.
Ultrasound, x-ray of the chest and abdominal cavity. On X-rays and ultrasound diagnostics, you can see the general outline of the tumor, its size and location.
Puncture. Used in more advanced cases. To do this, they puncture the tumor, take a fragment of its contents and conduct a diagnostic study that helps determine the nature of the disease.

Based on the results of all tests, further treatment tactics are determined, restorative procedures and medications are prescribed.

Metastases in the lungs in cats symptoms

Manifestations of pathology depend on the location of developing metastases, but there are general signs that allow one to suspect the presence of oncology in an animal:

Decreased appetite. Due to intoxication, the cat may refuse to eat. This leads to rapid weight loss, further to the development of cancer cachexia.
Dullness of the fur, its ruffled appearance. Due to the body's exhausting struggle with pathological cells and insufficient supply of nutrients from food, the appearance of the animal's coat changes.
Depression, apathy. Due to exhaustion, the pathology leads to changes in the cat's behavior - excessively long sleep, lack of playfulness, and prolonged sitting in one place.
Edema. Swelling appears due to a disturbance in the composition of the blood and the mechanical effect of neoplasms on large vessels. The greatest danger is the development of pulmonary edema due to the accumulation of pathological fluid in the parenchyma of the organ.
Long-term non-healing wounds. As the disease progresses, any damage to the skin and mucous membranes will take longer to heal than usual.
Breathing disorders. As the pathology develops, symptoms of shortness of breath increase, wheezing, hoarseness, and cough appear.
Bad breath. Caused by decay processes occurring in the lungs.

Owners need to monitor the appearance of the animal, since identifying the disease in the early stages improves the future prognosis. You also need to pay attention to the appearance of compactions or swelling in the area of the mammary glands and superficial lymph nodes.

How long can you live with liver metastases?

New foci of metastasis arise in the liver as a result of the transfer of cancer cells through the bloodstream. Metastases usually enter the liver from the gastrointestinal tract and lungs. If melanoma is present anywhere, metastasis to the liver is also possible.

When secondary tumor foci appear in the liver, the following symptoms are observed:

"brokenness"; very rapid onset of fatigue at low loads; rapid weight loss; yellowness of the skin, and sometimes the sclera of the eyes; bleeding; dyspepsia.

The presence of pathological neoplasms in the liver is dangerous because it causes serious problems in metabolism. Fortunately, this disease is treatable.

The effectiveness of treatment will depend on the number of metastases, the type of tumor and the strength of the body.

As a rule, they resort to chemotherapy, with the help of which it is possible not only to suspend the process, but also to stop it completely. Treatment can last from six months to a year.

How long a person lives will depend on the timeliness of treatment started and how well the metastases are removed. The outcome is quite favorable if radiation therapy is given in addition to chemotherapy. As numerous experiments show, with rapid diagnosis and the appointment of adequate therapy, about 41% of people live at least another 5 years.

Forecast

To understand how long your pet has left to live, you should focus on the stage of the disease . With early treatment, animals have a positive prognosis; cats live up to 3-6 years. Timely treatment increases the chances of survival. In the final stages, cure is almost impossible.

In most cases, supportive therapy is used to reduce pain and the well-being of the sick cat. The following factors influence life expectancy after surgery:

The work of the immune system.
The presence of metastases in internal organs.
Genetic predisposition.
Well-chosen treatment.

After treatment, it is worth understanding that cancer can make itself felt again. Most often, relapses appear 2-3 years after recovery. In such cases, it is necessary to show the cat to a doctor as soon as possible, conduct diagnostic tests and begin appropriate treatment.

Lung cancer stage 2: how long do they live?

At the second stage of lung cancer, the tumor already reaches 7 cm in diameter, and regional lymph nodes are affected. Characteristic symptoms begin to appear. Patients note:

Cough with sputum production;
Hard breath;
Increased body temperature;
General malaise.

Stage 2a is characterized by an increase in the tumor up to 5 cm with the spread of pathology to regional nodes. Or the tumor reaches 5-7 cm, while no cancer cells are found in the lymph nodes.

During stage 2b the following may occur:

The tumor is 5-7 cm in size with damage to regional lymph nodes;
The tumor is larger than 7 cm, the lymph nodes are not affected;
The tumor is about 5-7 cm and is localized in the central bronchus;
The tumor is about 5-7 cm and grows into the diaphragm.

After treatment for stage 2 lung cancer, the five-year survival rate is 30-40%. Properly selected therapy will extend life by another 5-7 years. With small cell cancer, the survival rate is much lower and is only 20%.

Diagnosis of metastases in the lungs in cats

The earlier the pathological process is detected, the better the prognosis. Therefore, a complex of examinations is carried out, aimed not only at clarifying the location of metastases, but also at identifying the primary tumor and determining its operability.

Based on the data obtained (clinical manifestations, time of onset of pathology, rate of development), the specialist makes a presumptive diagnosis.

To clarify, carried out:

Laboratory tests of blood and urine. General, clinical, biochemical tests show how far the process has gone, how widespread it is, and the degree of severity.
Ultrasound, X-ray examination of the chest and abdominal organs. These methods make it possible to visualize metastases in the lungs of cats, determine their location and size. Treatment tactics depend on this.
Puncture. Puncture and aspiration of tumor particles are necessary to establish the nature of the neoplasm. Based on cytological examination, further diagnostics are carried out in order to identify the primary focus of cancer.

Diagnosis of cancer

First, a chest x-ray is taken. If cancer is localized in the roots of the lungs, bronchoscopy is prescribed. In this case, multiple small tumors or one large tumor may be detected. In the first case, chemotherapy is recommended, in the second - surgical treatment.

The level of lung infiltration and tumor differentiation is also important. In case of severe infiltration, chemotherapy is recommended; otherwise, surgery is performed. The prognosis is worsened by the presence of metastases in other pulmonary lobes, damage to the lymph nodes in the roots of the lungs, and a particularly unfavorable symptom is metastasis to the bones of the chest.

An accurate diagnosis can only be made with a biopsy . A biopsy can be obtained by bronchoscopy; if the cancer is localized on the periphery of the lungs, a biopsy can be obtained using a percutaneous transthoracic puncture. Unfortunately, in most cases, a biopsy cannot be taken due to the complex localization of the tumor; as a result, cytological examination is performed after thoracotomy.

Treatment of metastases

After the examination, the doctor assesses the chances of recovery and works out treatment tactics. Initially, it is worth determining whether the tumor can be removed surgically. If this is possible, then the cat can count on recovery.

In other cases, the body will need to be supported with medications. Unfortunately, treatment is prescribed to prolong the pet's life for a short period. Expectorants, painkillers, and immunostimulants help alleviate the condition.

If an animal undergoes surgery, then after it it will require mandatory chemotherapy or radiation. The following are used as additional measures during treatment:

Proper nutrition . It is necessary to provide the cat with a healthy and nutritious diet, enriched with vitamins, macroelements, and nutrients. At this time, it is better to avoid chemical additives and canned food.
Care. It is worth checking the animal's fur regularly to eliminate the possibility of infection. It is also worth taking care of a clean place to sleep.
Refusal of chemical treatment at home. During therapy, you should try to use washing and cleaning products at home as little as possible. This must be done while the pet is outside.

It is also worth remembering to take medications in a timely manner. This increases the cat's chance of recovery.

Care and feeding

The diet of cats with cancer should contain an increased amount of calories and be rich in vitamins and microelements. This is an important condition because sick pets do not receive these substances in full. Once the diagnosis is made, your veterinarian may prescribe an intravenous glucose infusion.

It is recommended to support your pet's care by selecting a high-quality menu for it. If there is a large loss of body weight, parenteral nutrition is additionally administered. Despite the illness, the cat must be bathed when dirty, but be sure to dry it with a hairdryer so that, due to a weakened immune system, it does not contract an infectious disease.

It may be difficult for your pet to move if there are metastases in the lungs, so it is worth providing him with peace and a cozy, warm place to sleep.