Top 10 warning signs of cancer in dogs
Cancer can be difficult to treat and is sometimes fatal. It is important to know the warning signs of cancer in dogs. The key to successful treatment is early detection. That leads me to my next point: what are the signs of canine cancer?
Here they are:
- Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow
- Sores that do not heal
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Bleeding or discharge from body openings
- Offensive odor
- Difficulty eating or swallowing
- Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina
- Persistent lameness or stiffness
- Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating
Does your pet exhibit any of these symptoms? If so, it’s time to visit the vet. It could be causes other than cancer, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Familiarize yourself with the warning signs of cancer in dogs.
Cancer is an uncontrolled growth of cells on or within the dogs body. It can be benign or malignant. Like in humans, cancer in dogs can be localized or it can spread to other parts or organs of the body.
Cancer is very common in pets and their chances of getting cancer increases with age. Cancer is the cause of death in over half of the dogs over 10 years of age. Cancer is not as common in cats.
Diagnosis is through blood tests or x-rays and many are diagnosed through a routine examination must like humans. Most will require a biopsy for confirmation that cancer is present and at what stage. Early detection and treatment are the best way to handle cancer in pets.
Be sure to check your pet on a regular basis and if you see any changes please be sure to speak with your veterinarian about them.
Read about how a special diet was a natural cure for one dog.
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