Animal Wellness

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Cancer in Animals

Cancer is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells. It is found in animals as well as in humans. There are many different types of cancer that are found in animals. Symptoms are often similar to those in people (e.g. abnormal swelling, unexplained weight loss, lethargy, reluctance to exercise, and so forth).

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in animals. Treatment can include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiotherapy. Cancer occurs most often in older pets and is the leading cause of death among cats and dogs. If your pet has cancer, it is important that a veterinarian is seen immediately because the earlier the cancer is detected, the earlier treatment can begin and the better the chances are of survival.

Cancer can be difficult to detect in animals especially because they can’t describe their pain or show you exactly where it is. Here are 10 of the most common signs to look out for:

• abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow,
  
• sores that don’t heal,
  
• weight loss and loss of appetite,
  
• bleeding or discharge,
  
• difficulty eating or swallowing,
  
• hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina, not laziness due to heat,
  
• persistent lameness or stiffness, and
  
• difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating.
  

If you see any of these signs, see a veterinarian so that a diagnosis can be made. Diagnostic tests can include x-rays, which will show tumors, abnormal masses of tissue, and degradation of bones. Tests also can include blood work and ultrasound.

The therapies practiced at Easing Paw can help animals diagnosed with cancer, to keep the spirit up, to help the animals go without vomiting through chemotherapy, to create more stamina, and to help animals eat better and be more active. The Easing Paw approach can also help reduce depression, aid in sleeping, and create a more stable immune system so the body can fight harder against the cancer.

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