With the increase in life expectancy, cats do not escape this scourge. Cat Cancer is the second leading cause of death in this species, just behind chronic kidney failure. 

Our modern way of life, which we share with them (sedentary lifestyle, pollution, processed foods, etc.), is undoubtedly not without consequences for developing malignant tumors in our little companions. 

What is the Risk of cancer for my cat? Can we minimize it?

Cancer is the appearance of malignant cells within an organ. This proliferation can be more or less aggressive leading to a variable evolution of the disease. 

The primary malignant tumor will sometimes spread to other organs which will, in turn, develop cancerous masses, and metastases. Lymphoma is the most common cancer in cats.




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1-What are the main cancers in cats?
2-What are the causes of cancer in cats?
3-How to protect my cat from cancer?

1-What are the main cancers in cats?

All organs or cells can be the site of cancer, leading to various symptoms. Cancers are generally named according to the type of tissue affected (for example “melanoma” for cancer that develops from melanocytes, cells of the skin). 

The precise diagnosis is made by histological analysis (under a microscope) of a fragment of the tumor.

Lymphoma is the main malignant tumor in cats (about 30% of cancers). It is derived from lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. Lymphocytes are present in many organs, which is why we can encounter different lymphomas:     

Digestive lymphoma, lymphoma of the mediastinal lymph node, renal lymphoma, ocular lymphoma, etc.

Among the main malignant skin tumors in cats are fibrosarcoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and mastocytoma.

Cats are prone to mammary tumors which are cancerous in over 90% of cases. Metastases, particularly to the lungs, are frequent and early.

These are the most common cancers in cats. This list is unfortunately far from exhaustive.

2-What are the causes of cancer in cats?

Malignant cells grow under the action of mutagens while escaping the regulation of the immune system. As in humans, the agents inducing cancer in cats are still poorly understood. 

There are likely factors:

Certain breeds seem predisposed to certain tumors. The Maine Coon would thus be predisposed to cutaneous hemangiosarcomas, the Siamese to mammary tumors and lymphomas.

Felv, the feline leukemia virus is known to trigger tumor processes (lymphoma or leukemia).

Hormonal:

Cats that have not been neutered or have received the pill are more likely to develop malignant mammary tumors.

Pollution and endocrine disruptors have mutagenic powers in humans and probably in cats. Passive smoking is known to be responsible for asthma in felines, but it is less well known that it also increases the risk of cancer. 

A study has shown that cats living with smokers are 2.4 times more likely to develop lymphoma. 

UV from the sun can induce squamous cell carcinoma. These skin cancers mainly develop in white cats, in the ears or nose.

In many cases, the immune system is able to eliminate cancer cells before they grow. However, sometimes the immune system is too weakened to play this role. 

This is for example the case of older cats or cats with diseases that reduce immunity such as FIV, and feline immunodeficiency virus. This virus is transmitted by bite.

Is my cat at risk of cancer?

3-How to protect my cat from cancer?

It is of course illusory to think that we can eradicate feline cancer with a few tips. However, just like in humans, a healthy lifestyle is essential for our little friends in the prevention of certain tumors. With a few precautions, the risk of cancer in cats can be minimized:

Sterilize your cat

Early sterilization (at 6 months) in cats prevents almost 100% of mammary tumors. The contraceptive pill is to be avoided. In the male, castration cancels the cancers of the testicles and the prostate. 

It also decreases the fighting behavior which increases the risk of contracting FIV.

Vaccinate Your cat

Vaccination against leucosis (Felv) is essential for cats that go outside. It should be noted that post-injection fibrosarcoma has become very rare with the appearance of new generation vaccines, this should therefore no longer be an obstacle to feline vaccination (except for animals that have already contracted fibrosarcoma).

Cat's quality food

Its action is little studied in the development of cancer in cats, but we know that it plays an important role in humans. It is best to bring premium food to your favorite cat. 

And, in order to protect it from pesticide residues and other dubious preservatives, if you went organic?


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Smoke On the balcony

Yes, even at minus 5°C... In addition, sprays and room fragrances you will avoid. In your house, you will ventilate.

To your cat with white ears, the sunscreen you will apply
There are sun creams for animals to spread without moderation on the auricular pavilions as soon as the good weather returns.

Pamper Your old cat

An older animal is more fragile. We do not hesitate to pat him frequently in search of a suspicious lump and to monitor his weight and appetite (weight loss can be a warning sign).

Above all, do not neglect the annual veterinary visit to minimize the risk of cancer in your cat!