Pet Cancer Awareness Month

National Pet Cancer Awareness Month was created in 2005 by Nationwide and the Animal Cancer Foundation. With the help of these foundations, November was declared National Pet Cancer Awareness Month in an effort of raising awareness about the leading killer of pets.  As the years pass, cancer cases in animals continue to grow. Luckily, recent healthcare innovations and advances help veterinarians detect and prevent pet cancer.

Pet cancer can refer to a wide variety of conditions, which can make it hard to pinpoint exactly what symptoms and signs you should look out for. Additionally, many cancer symptoms can also mimic those of other extreme medical conditions.

Listed below are the most common types of pet cancers:

• • Lymphoma
  • Splenic (spleen) Cancer
  • Bone or Joint Cancer
  • Hepatic (liver) Cancer
  • Thoracic (chest) Cancer
  • Bladder Cancer
  • Anal Sac Cancer
  • Oral Cancer
  • Brain or Spinal Cord Cancer

While many of these pet cancer symptoms can signify the presence of other diseases or infections, be sure to talk to your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of the following:

• • Loss of appetite or difficulty eating
  • Unusual swelling or lumps
  • Sores that don’t heal
  • Rapid weight loss
  • Diarrhea and/or vomiting
  • Loss of interest in playing or exercising
  • Difficulty with stool or urination, or changes in stool frequency
  • Abnormal stiffness
  • Severe lethargy
  • Unusually strong/foul odors
  • Blood coming from mouth or rectum
  • Increased thirst and urination
  • Respiratory changes
  • Abnormally firm swelling
  • Masses along jaw or tooth line

Occasionally, the early stages of pet cancer can have little to no warning signs. That being said, it is important to participate in routine pet checkups with your veterinarian. A biannual routine checkup can help maintain your pet’s health and potentially detect cancer before it becomes a major problem.

As you’re learning about pet cancer this November and applying that knowledge to your pet parenting habits, take the time to share your knowledge with other devoted pet parents. Spreading awareness and sharing your resources could help save a pet’s life. 

Works Cited

National Day Calendar, 29 Oct. 2018, nationaldaycalendar.com/national-pet-cancer-awareness-month-november/. 

“November Is Pet Cancer Awareness Month: Here’s What You Should Know.” DogTime, 1 Nov. 2019, dogtime.com/dog-health/canine-cancer/64061-may-pet-cancer-awareness-month-heres-know.