What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Skin Cancer in Felines?
Feline skin cancer is a disease more commonly seen in older cats. Regular veterinary screenings are vital, especially as your cat ages. Cats that develop skin cancer will experience changes in the skin and coat such as discolorations, lesions and hair loss. If your cat has wounds that are not healing or any noticeable skin changes, take him to the veterinarian for a thorough evaluation.
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Itchy skin
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Excessive scratching could be a symptom of skin cancer. Cancer lesions can become crusty and dry, causing your cat to scratch more often. The skin will often become red and irritated, and the lesion may ooze pus and become infected.
Lumps
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Feline skin cancer comes in many forms. Some types of cancer appear above the skin in the form of a bumps or ulcerated skin tissue, but other types of skin cancer originate under the surface of the skin.
Lumps and bumps can vary in size from smaller than a pea to as large as a golf ball and can develop almost anywhere on the body. A veterinarian is the best person to determine if your cat has skin cancer or some other medical condition.
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Discolored Nose
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Another sign of skin cancer in a cat is a discolored nose. Skin cancer may develop on the cat's nose if she is continually exposed to the sun. Her nose will change in color from the moles and lesions forming on the surface of her skin. The lesions on the nose may look raw and uneven.
Hair Loss
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Patches of hair will typically fall out around a cancer lesion. Any skin changes will become more visable as the hair falls out.
Changes in lips, eyelids
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Other signs of skin cancer in felines are changes in the lips and eyelids. Look for discolorations, lumps or lesions in these areas. Like the nose, these areas are frequently exposed to the sun. However, keep in mind that sun exposure is not the only reason a cat develops skin cancer. Some cats develop skin cancer as they grow older, and genetics may also play a role.
Other Symptoms
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If the cancer has spread to other areas of the cat's body, he may become tired and lethargic, a condition that will continue if the cancer goes untreated. Your cat may also lose his appetite and you may notice changes in his behavior.
According to the ASPCA, some changes in behavior include sudden lameness, listlessness and lethargy. All of these symptoms may be indicative of skin cancer, but also could be symptoms of other medical conditions. Consult your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis.
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