This is part 3 of a 3-part series:
Part 2: Physical sxamination signs of cancer
Performing a monthly check-up of your pet at home is recommended to become familiar with your pet. By paying attention to the specific areas listed below, early detection of cancer becomes a practical and attainable goal. First, pay attention to any lumps or swellings in the skin. If these lumps or masses seem to grow over a period of time, they must be investigated further by your primary care veterinarian. Lymph nodes in the skin can become swollen quickly and indicate that lymphosarcoma may be present. Skin cancers are the most common types of cancer that we see in dogs and any new skin masses that grow need to be addressed. In our feline patients, breast cancer is almost always aggressive and malignant. Any skin lumps in the mammary region need to be addressed in both dogs and cats.
Secondly, look inside your pet?s mouth. Tumors that occur in the mouth can cause bad breath, drooling, or bleeding from the mouth. It can be difficult to get a good look in the mouth, especially in feline patients. For dogs, when they are panting heavily and their tongue falls forward and their mouth is open wide, it is a good time to take a look. For cats, it usually works best to attempt to open the mouth when your cat is calm and relaxed.
Next, look for any unusual discharge from body openings. For example, nasal discharge that comes from one nostril is an early warning sign of nasal cancer. Discharge from the eyes or ears can also indicate the presence of cancer.
Evaluate the pets body for sores or ulcers that do not seem to heal within a two-week period of time. If you have a white cat, pay close attention to ear tips and the tip of the nose. In dogs with a white sided underbelly, watch for red ulcers that do not go away. The nail area in dogs and cats is also another place to check carefully for non-healing sores or swellings. Cancers of the toe or nail bed occur in both dogs and cats and can be malignant, which means these cancers have a high chance of spreading to other parts of the body.
Along with monthly home check-ups, dogs and cats should have a thorough wellness examination performed by your family veterinarian every six months. Remember that six months for a dog or cat is equivalent to three years or more years for a person. Early detection of disease gives the best chance for cure.
Dr. Correa
Board Certified in Oncology
Animal Cancer Care Clinic
www.AnimalCancerCareClinic.com
Read more articles by Dr. Correa
Source: http://blogs.palmbeachpost.com/pawshere/2012/03/21/possible-physical-signs-of-cancer-in-your-pet/
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