Feline cancers and chemo
Generally, cancer occurs in older animals. Cats are destined to live long and the price they pay for it shows in the increased incidence of feline cancer . Symptoms of cancer in cats and dogs do not present themselves in early stages. It requires a keen observation for an early detection and treatment. For example, the symptoms of liver cancer in dogs need to be evaluated after considering other conditions that throw up similar symptoms.
Cells normally multiply by division in a pattern. Initially there is a continuous increase in cells to achieve an optimal level of growth in cats. Once a particular level is achieved cell multiplication is automatically curbed and new cells are formed to replace dead cells. Certain unknown conditions cause cells to ‘rebel’ and multiply even when the body does not need them. Characteristically, an unrestricted multiplication of cells is known as cancer. Normally a tumor or growth is formed in and around the affected organ or area, which may be localized or invasive and spread to distant organs as well. A tumor may be benign (harmless) or malignant (dangerous to health, often fatal and characterized by progressive and uncontrolled growth)
Benign tumors and certain malignant tumors can be removed surgically without harming the cat. Surgery is not recommended in cases where cancer has spread to vital organs and radiation or chemotherapy is used to treat cancer. Chemotherapy is also used as a post surgical treatment where the tumor has not been removed totally. Chemotherapy is the use of drugs that are used singly or in a combination of different anti cancer drugs.
Although all conventional drugs have accompanying side effects, chemotherapeutic medication requires extra care during and after administration. Anti cancer drugs are normally expelled by the body via urine and stool within a period that may extend from 48 hours to 5 days. Handling of urine or feces should only be with protective gloves or disposable heavy wipes. Better still, train your cat to eliminate away from the immediate yard or play area. Similar precautions need to be taken in instances of chemotherapeutic treatment of cancer in dogs .
Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are some of the common side effects of chemotherapy. Nausea often leads to refusal to eat. Nausea is usually transient and does not require specific treatment. Adding smelly fish to the cat’s food or a favorite food normally tempts the cat to resume eating. Persistent conditions are treated with anti emetics and appetite promoting drugs. Diarrhea too is mild and transient and treated with drugs that reduce intestinal discomfort.
The most serious aspect of chemotherapy arises from the inherent quality of these drugs to suppress the body’s own immune system that may lead to systemic infections. The cat may show fever. As the body become more susceptible to infections, pus forming bacteria and their toxins travel through the blood and tissues. This may lead to a condition known as septic shock, which needs to be attended to immediately to avoid risk of death.
Although the side effects of chemotherapy are mostly restricted and transient in nature, cat owners would do well if they learn about preventive measures. A healthy diet that is actually meant for cats can go a long way to avoid this life threatening disease.
