Tumor of the mammary glands in cats. How to determine the first stages of mammary cancer in cats and dogs

When talking about common feline diseases, one cannot fail to mention cancer. Yes, unfortunately, animals, like people, have a fairly high risk of developing cancer. A tumor of the mammary gland in cats is quite common, and in four out of five cases the disease takes a malignant course. This serious illness can be completely cured only with early diagnosis. The owner should closely monitor the health of his pet and, if a small lump or lump appears in the mammary glands, be sure to contact a veterinary clinic for advice.

Today, only a number of factors are known, the presence of which leads to the development of mammary gland cancer in cats. And the exact reasons for this dangerous illness medicine is still unknown. Highest value It has hormonal factor. Fluctuations in hormonal levels in an animal’s body can be caused by various reasons:

1. Natural fluctuations. They accompany estrous cycles (physiological changes in the body that occur during the period between two estrus cycles). In this case, the risk cancer Early (before the first heat) sterilization of the cat reduces this risk.
2. Artificially created vibrations. This includes the impact on hormonal background the animal's body with preparations of the hormone progesterone, which is prescribed to reduce the level of aggression in cats or to prevent unwanted pregnancy in females. In this case, you can avoid the risk of cancer by refusing to prescribe similar drugs(or give them not regularly, but occasionally).

In addition, the following factors increase the likelihood of tumor processes in the mammary gland:

1. Age of the cat. The disease usually does not affect kittens. Cats aged 10 years and older are most susceptible to the disease.
2. There is a breed predisposition. It is believed that tumors appear more often in cats of Oriental and Siamese breeds.
3. Hereditary predisposition also matters.
4. The risk increases if the cat has lived for a long time in a polluted environment.
5. Feeding low-quality feed, a poor, monotonous diet significantly reduces the animal’s body’s resistance, and therefore increases the risk of getting sick.

There is also a version that cancer of any location, including a breast tumor, has viral etiology. But definitive proof of it still does not exist.

Who is susceptible to the disease

Most often, mammary tumors in cats occur in older and older adults. Unsterilized cats over 10 years of age are especially susceptible to the disease. Cases of the disease in uncastrated males were much less common, although there is a possibility of such cases. The risk group consists of short-haired cats. Cats of the Siamese and Oriental breeds have the opportunity to get sick in at a young age.

Stages of the disease

Mammary cancer that occurs in a cat has four stages of development. They are recognized by their clinical signs and have different courses:

• The first stage is characterized by small, painless lumps. The lymph nodes are not yet enlarged. The disease detected at this stage can be completely cured, and the cat continues to live.
• The second stage is characterized by a more dense neoplasm, which can reach a diameter of three centimeters. The tumor at this stage is operable, animals have an approximately one-year survival rate.
• The third stage is a tumor larger than three centimeters in size, inflamed lymph nodes. The cat protects the chest, experiencing pain in the affected area.
• Fourth, last stage cannot be cured. The neoplasm is significant in size. Lymph nodes are greatly enlarged. The cat is exhausted. There are already metastases. In most cases, at this stage of the disease, surgery is powerless. Strong pain syndrome relieved by constant use of painkillers. The prognosis of the disease is unfavorable. In particular severe cases euthanasia of the animal is used.

The degree of the disease in the clinic is determined by the so-called staging system, which takes into account the size of the tumor and the results aspiration biopsy lymph nodes. In addition, to determine the number and localization of metastases, radiography is prescribed in three projections, ultrasonography abdominal cavity, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging.

Types of breast tumors

Most tumors (and there are 4 pairs in total) develop from glandular epithelium and are divided into three large groups:

1. Adenoma and fibroadenoma (in the case of a benign course), it is quite rare.
2. Carcinoma or adenocarcinoma (in the case of a malignant course) of the mammary gland in a cat, it is much more common. Most of it comes from the epithelium of the ducts and alveoli of the mammary glands. Inflammatory carcinoma of the mammary glands is especially dangerous. It is accompanied by an inflammatory process and therefore has a particularly unfavorable prognosis.
3. Mixed tumors affect both ductal and epithelial tissues of the mammary glands. They are characterized by a more favorable course.

Carcinoma mammary glands is a mobile nodular formation. On late stages it often opens and may ulcerate or bleed. The mammary glands are most often affected on one side, less often on both sides. The disease is accompanied by enlarged lymph nodes, especially in the groin and axillary areas.

It is not always possible to determine the type of tumor (benign or malignant), especially if it has burst. In this case, the treatment regimen is based on the method of treating a potentially malignant neoplasm.

Characteristic symptoms

The main symptoms appear when the disease has already entered advanced stage. At this stage it gets worse general health animal and its appearance changes. The tumor may appear as single or multiple nodes. Inguinal and axillary lymph nodes inflamed. The lesion may involve several lobes of the mammary gland. Sometimes its true size can only be assessed after shaving the fur over a fairly large area of ​​the body. Basic Clinical signs at this stage are:

• the neoplasm is significant in size;
• there is quite severe inflammation surrounding tissues;
• the cat is in quite a lot of pain;
• body temperature may rise;
• the animal loses weight sharply, there is no appetite;
• Bleeding and discharge of pus from the opened tumor are possible.

If a cat's mammary gland is swollen and painful, this is not always associated with cancer. Very often, some non-tumor conditions of the mammary glands have similar symptoms. Basically, these are hyperplasias (tissue growths) of various etiologies and some other conditions:

• hyperplasia of the gland ducts;
• breast cysts;
• lobular hyperplasia;
• fibroadenomatous hyperplasia;
• false pregnancy;
• true pregnancy;
• consequences of the administration of progesterone hormone drugs.

Establishing diagnosis

As already mentioned, with breast cancer, early diagnosis disease is very important, so the owner is required to deliver the animal to a good veterinary facility on time. Only a doctor can make a high-quality diagnosis. He has all kinds of instrumental examination(ultrasound, radiography, magnetic resonance and CT scan). Besides, accurate diagnosis it helps to place a biopsy or fine needle aspiration (penetration) into the lesion for cytological examination.

A lot depends on how carefully the biopsy material is taken. Additional trauma to the tumor can lead to a sharp increase in the number of metastases, which will make the patient's condition more severe. The inguinal and axillary lymph nodes must be examined, since they are also often affected by the disease.

In this case, a detailed blood test, including its biochemical formula, is no less informative. It will determine the degree of the inflammatory process, as well as the presence co-infections, which cannot be ignored when prescribing a treatment regimen.

Treatment methods

In most cases, treatment for breast cancer is radical. Surgery to remove the tumor is proposed. It usually takes place in several stages:

• removal of a mammary tumor, which is performed in cats with a large area healthy tissue;
• removal of nearby lymph nodes to prevent further metastasis;
• chemotherapy – as the final stage of treatment, designed to stop the tumor process and eliminate the possibility of relapses.

Removal of the affected area with a significant area of ​​healthy tissue

The smaller the tumor size, the higher the chances of success of the operation. It is believed that the prognosis of the disease is favorable if the diameter does not exceed 3 cm. The degree of surgical intervention may vary depending on the size of the affected area:

• If the cat's tumor is small in size, only the affected gland is removed.
• If neighboring glands are captured, then during one intervention the entire row of glands is removed.
• If it is bilateral (two-sided), removal of the breast tumor is carried out in two stages with an interval of two weeks. But, if the lower or upper layers of the skin are involved in the tumor process, the entire affected area is removed at once.

It is difficult to say how long a cat will live after a mastectomy. The operation is classified as difficult, so a 100% guarantee of success is usually not given. There is also no certainty that the disease will not return in the form of a relapse.

Removal of lymph nodes

Fine-needle aspiration of regional (associated with the organs in question) lymph nodes makes it possible to determine the degree of their involvement in pathological process. Usually, surgery is prescribed to remove the affected lymph nodes (inguinal and axillary). Sometimes ovariohysterectomy (removal of the uterus and ovaries) is performed simultaneously, which facilitates postoperative therapy.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is the final stage of treatment. During it, quite strong drugs are used (Doxorubicin, Cyclophosphamide), which help to completely stop the tumor process. But, at the same time, they have quite significant side effects and cause severe intoxication of the body. Therefore, chemotherapy is carried out under careful monitoring of the animal’s condition.

In the event that a cat has contraindications to mastectomy ( elderly age or bad condition health), chemotherapy becomes the only way to stop the pathological process and even slightly reduce the size of the tumor.

Chemotherapy is also used when the tumor is small and the attending physician decides to do without surgery.

Help with tumor diseases

If your pet has a mammary tumor and is observed purulent discharge, consultation with a veterinarian is necessary. In most cases, the exposed tumor is urgently removed. But, if this path is dangerous, they resort to conservative treatment. Applications of Levomekol ointment are usually prescribed. Before smearing, treat the wound with chlorhexidine. In addition, antibiotic therapy is carried out (Tsiprovet, Fosprenil). The wound is covered with a loose bandage, with free access of air. A loose blanket is put on top.

If a cat has a tumor, it needs to be given maximum attention and care. You can take care of her without fear for your health - the disease is not contagious.

Postoperative period: animal care

A caring owner should know what to do in postoperative period. His main task is to accurately follow all medical recommendations:

• The most important condition is to create all conditions for the animal to speedy recovery. He needs rest for successful rehabilitation.
• The diet is compiled together with the attending physician. Only recommended foods or feeds are allowed and given in moderation. There should be no deviations from the dietary regime.
• Timely treatment of seams and surrounding tissues is important.
• Postoperative drug therapy will help create protection against infections to eliminate the possibility of complications.
• Protective bandages and blankets should be used to prevent the animal from injuring the operated area.

At the slightest hint of postoperative complications(the stitches have ruptured and pus has come out, or the temperature has risen) you must immediately take the animal to the clinic.

Preventive measures

A preventive measure that provides almost one hundred percent protection against of this disease– cat sterilization childhood, even before the onset of the first heat and castration of a cat under the age of 1 year.

Regular prevention consists of the following:

• when playing with a cat or male cat, it is necessary to conduct an incidental examination of the mammary glands;
• the animal is subjected to an annual preventive examination at a veterinary institution after reaching 10 years of age;
• should be abandoned hormonal drugs regulating the cat’s sexual activity and delaying pregnancy;
• It is equally important to observe the principles of correct and good nutrition pet;
• and finally, it is necessary to treat in a timely manner inflammatory diseases genitourinary system pets.

Breast tumors are very serious disease. Any person caring for their pet is interested in the question: how long do cats with this disease live? Given that early detection their life span may not be limited by the disease. In other cases, their average lifespan ranges from 2 to 20 months (if you count from detection).

You should never despair and lose hope for the recovery of your family friend. We must do everything possible and believe, according to the principle: as long as you believe, you live.

Having found a tumor on the mammary gland in a cat, its owner is not only upset, he does not know what to do and how dangerous such a formation is. Such tumors of the mammary glands in domestic cats do not occur instantly, but owners often find changes by accident. What can cause a tumor in a cat, how to treat mammary cancer, what is the prognosis? We will try to answer all these questions.

Causes of a tumor on the chest of a cat

Such diseases are diagnosed in pets quite often.

The mammary glands are the most likely to be affected; tissue growths in them are overwhelmingly (about 80%) malignant. There is a relationship between age and morbidity. Young cats are rarely susceptible to mammary tumors. The number of actually detected mammary tumors (mammary gland tumors) in a cat increases in direct proportion to the number of years lived.

There is an increased tendency to neoplasms in some cat breeds; the most vulnerable in this regard are the Oriental and Siamese. Similar hardenings on the abdomen near the nipples can even occur in cats, although much less frequently: 1–5 per 100 cases of specific incidence of mammary gland cancer. Individuals of both sexes usually become ill after the age barrier of 10 years, with the exception of Oriental breeds, which are susceptible to tumor processes at a younger age. Also, the incidence of cancer is noticeably higher in short-haired breeds of animals.

The influence of hormones on feline breast disease

There is a dependence of the frequency of AMF in cats on sterilization. As many years of practice have shown in different countries Sterilization carried out at a young age (up to two years) significantly reduces the risk of the disease appearing in old age.

Fluctuations in hormones and cyclical changes in hormonal levels affect subsequent mammary gland disease and give impetus to the development of the disease in unsterilized individuals. Castration up to a year neutralizes hormonal action, reduces the risk, but cannot completely eliminate it. It was determined experimentally (injections of hormonal drugs) that the introduction of hormones characteristic of normal cycle unsterilized animal, provokes the development of tumors in males and females. The hormone progesterone was used to reduce the aggressiveness of cats, and in this way they tried to prevent pregnancy in females. Which led to sad but true statistics. Artificial intervention in physiological processes is fraught with unforeseen problems in the future.

Let's summarize possible reasons breast tumors in cats:

• age over 10 years;
• hereditary predisposition;
• cyclical hormonal fluctuations;
• the use of estrus blockers in cats;
• lack of early sterilization;
• carrying out sterilization in individuals over two years of age.

Types of breast tumors in cats

To the touch, tumors in the area of ​​the cat's mammary glands resemble nodes under the skin. Nodular formations can be fixed or movable when pressed with fingers, their size ranges from almost imperceptible to impressive (photo). Sometimes tumors bulge outward in the form of cysts, bleed, and ulcers often appear on them. In veterinary medicine, it is customary to treat mammary tumors in cats as suspected of being cancerous, since they are difficult to distinguish from those that are not related to cancer. The proliferation of altered tissues often spreads across several lobes of a cat’s mammary glands at once (photo). Usually a number of glands are affected on one side, much less often the process affects both sides.

In the photo, mammary cancer has been reliably diagnosed in cats. Source: Flickr (Jimmi M)

The lymph nodes become enlarged, which can be seen externally or palpated with your fingers. The formations can be benign in nature; it is not easy to accurately diagnose such cases. To differentiate and exclude other diagnoses (or confirm them), a biopsy is required.

In the photo, mammary cancer has been reliably diagnosed in cats. Characteristic lesions are usually the inguinal and axillary lymph nodes.

It is advisable that a sick pet be examined by a veterinarian if possible. Difficulties in diagnosis tumor diseases Even doctors have concerns about the mammary gland in cats. Therefore, the veterinarian will base his choice of tactics on the method of working with the malignant type of neoplasm, even if this has not been confirmed in any way. Don’t be afraid, because you will help your pet in any case, because friends are not abandoned. Together with the doctor, you will conduct a diagnosis and outline an action plan. If this is not possible, calm down and start acting, examine the cat yourself.

Treatment of mammary cancer in cats

The effectiveness of treatment of mammary gland diseases of a tumor nature in cats depends on the time of detection and the size of the tumor. If the size of the formation is less than 3 cm (photo), then the animals are usually cured (especially if the formation is noticed at a size of up to 1 cm). How larger size lesions, the worse the prognosis. Remember this when playing with your pupil, and sometimes check her condition. If you suspect something is wrong, do not panic, the cat needs help, not emotions. You are now her hope and salvation, try to justify the trust of your furry friend.

Stages of feline mammary gland cancer

The course of the disease with mammary gland cancer in cats can be slow, but sometimes it develops rapidly. The speed of the process does not always affect the course of the disease and prognosis.

There are four stages of the disease:

1. Initial. At this stage, symptoms have not yet appeared. Although small nodules are already forming, they do not yet bother the cat and are invisible to its owner. If Murka or Aphrodite (or even just Masha) is brought to the veterinarian for preventive examinations regularly, then he can detect malignant formations at the very beginning. Then a complete cure is possible. Animals that are vulnerable due to their breed characteristics and older animals are especially in need of such prevention.
2. Second stage. The tumor grows, its size is up to 3 centimeters. The chances of a cure are reduced; after excision of the problem area, cats live an average of 12 months.
3. The third and fourth are the most difficult. A complete cure is impossible, only maintaining vital functions for a while. The fourth stage is excruciating, painful, sometimes the doctor and the owner decide to interrupt this torment and euthanize the terminally ill cat. This is a psychologically difficult decision. The doctor expresses his opinion, but the owner always makes the choice. Rarely does anyone take such a measure, this is understandable. They decide to euthanize only in the most desperate situation, when the suffering of the sick pet is so great that it would be more humane not to try to prolong it. Many owners take care “all the way”, some of them are then tormented by doubts whether they did the right thing. Perhaps no one knows the answer to this bitter question.

Removing a mammary tumor from a cat

It is advisable to perform an operation to remove the identified tumor. It is better to remove the entire mammary gland if the cat's health allows. Sometimes it is necessary to remove the entire row of glands to remove metastases. If the tumors are symmetrical (bilateral), they are excised in two surgical interventions. The pause between operations is at least two weeks. But if the tumor is fused to the skin, then the entire affected block has to be amputated in one step. Some cats cannot be operated on due to contraindications. Then they use drugs that can not only block further spread of the disease, but sometimes approximately halve the size of the tumor. These are doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide (chemotherapy). Leafgol injections will stop the growth of tumors. The injections are painful, it is better to do them with novocaine. Traumeel ( homeopathic medicine) relieves pain and reduces inflammation.

The best option is a high-quality preoperative examination with subsequent conclusions. Analyzes, radiography, ultrasound, computed tomography. But equipped clinics and specialists the required level not available everywhere. In this case, without wasting time, act with feasible methods.

Treatment of AMF in cats without surgery using folk remedies

Reducing pain to a minimum, prolonging the cat’s life, stopping the development of AMF – these are our main goals and objectives. Remember that the tumor is not necessarily malignant; the cat’s mammary gland may be affected by another disease. Then your efforts will not only alleviate the patient’s condition, but can also cure her.

Calendula, spurge, arnica, knotweed, wild rosemary, periwinkle are herbs that inhibit uncontrolled cell growth. Chaga, fireweed (fireweed), plantain, and tartar are also good. Marsh cinquefoil and burdock help. You can prepare decoctions from them and give them to cats. If the tumor is benign in nature, then the condition will steadily improve. If it is still cancer, then you will at least stop the progression of the disease. Folk remedies Advanced cancer in cats, unfortunately, cannot be cured; you can only support the body after removing the tumor through surgery.

It is in your power to heal your pet from precancerous conditions. Mastitis, mastopathy, fibroadenoma can be treated, and glandular hypertrophy can also be cured. The listed formations are benign in nature (photo) and can be treated without removal. But if left untreated, there is danger malignant degeneration breast tumors.

Ailments lie in wait for our pets living nearby as often as they do for humans. Source: Flickr (Jim McCulloch)

Treatment of cat tumors using ASD

Treatment with the drug ASD To traditional methods can only be attributed conditionally, since this drug has been used in veterinary medicine for a long time and has not lost its relevance over decades of practice. It is also used at home. Injecting directly into or under the tumor (ASD, fraction 2), and simultaneous oral use of ASD-2 sometimes miraculously changes the situation. There are often cases when painful lump begins to disintegrate, then dissolves and completely disappears. It will take one and a half to two months of manipulation and time, but the result can please you. There is hope for your pet's recovery, so take this chance. The dosage is established empirically by the owners of suffering patients. Measure 5 ml of water with a syringe, add three drops of ASD, give before meals in the morning once daily. Every six days, take one day off. The cat should always have water poured, as the drug causes thirst. Your health will quickly improve. Even complete cure will not be, then your pet’s stay next to you will last much longer.

Additionally, a tincture of birch mushroom – chaga – is used. These two powerful means in a number of situations, they put a barrier to cancer even at the last stage. Try all reasonable methods, because the fate of a small helpless creature depends on you. We love those whom we give shelter to in our home, soul, and with whom we share living space. We perceive their ailments, and even more serious troubles, as our own. They are our little friends, almost like family members. This attitude will help you navigate the choice of assistance tactics.

Help with cat tumor diseases

It happens that a cat’s mammary tumor bursts (photo), and bloody and/or purulent discharge is observed. The situation is alarming - it could be just an abscess or development malignant process. In such cases, the animal must be shown to a veterinarian. Try to get advice from a specialist, he will guide you on what to do next. But it’s still up to you to decide and outline the algorithm of actions. Best Practices: surgical removal, excision of painful tissue. This is often problematic; such ailments overtake older animals, whose organs and systems are sometimes inoperable.

Open wounds on tumors that are not subject to surgery are treated with chlorhexidine and levomekol ointment.

Antibiotics are also used, which wide range actions. Tsiprovet - one tablet once a day. Fosprenil will stop the development of inflammation. Cats are given loose blankets so that the wound is covered, but there is access to it. Free access air. Do not be afraid to care for a sick person - this illness does not threaten human health.

Prevention of AMF in cats

There are not many preventive measures, but they are effective. By teaching yourself to follow simple rules, you will reduce the risk for your charges. No one can guarantee their complete and permanent health, but the percentage of those affected by the disease can be reduced.

1. Sterilization of females and castration of males. Better in early period(females - until the first heat, males - until one year). This measure almost completely eliminates the likelihood of AMI. According to statistics, only one out of two thousand timely sterilized females has a chance of developing AMF.
2. Do not ignore mastitis, mastopathy - immediately take measures, cure, prevent relapses (for example, by taking ASD-2 prophylactically).
3. It is advisable for owners of breeds that are susceptible to the disease more often than others to carefully and carefully examine the glands, starting from the young stage of their pet’s life. Periodically, you need to pay visits to a veterinarian so that he examines your pet and notices it in time. possible deviations. And time in oncology is a leading factor.
4. Protect pets from stress. Long lasting stressful situations can be trigger mechanisms pathological changes.
5. Rational feeding. Make up your diet not “from your table.” Consider the difference in physiology. What is tasty and healthy for you can harm a small, affectionate creature, and then both of you will suffer.
6. Examine all cats over ten years of age, regardless of breed, including outbred ones. You cannot miss the beginning, the starting point of pathology, because later it will become more difficult or even impossible to overcome it. At the initial stages of the process, the chances of restoring your cat's health are great, and this opportunity directly depends on your attention and care.

The examination will not cause you much trouble; there is neither need nor point in feeling the patient every day. But once a month, taking her in your arms and caressing her, you can carefully check her stomach and glands. The pet will be pleased, and the owner will be calmer.

Ailments lie in wait for our pets living nearby as often as they do for humans. There is even a version that animals living at home and eating food from the owner’s table have in old age the same set of diagnoses as humans. If these observations are true, then our four-legged friends pay for the benefits of civilization on an equal basis with their owners. Try to keep your pets out of trouble. And if this is not always possible, then help them overcome difficulties, be there for them. No matter how independent they may seem, these furry creatures rely on your help and compassion.

Let your handsome men and beauties delight your eyes and soul with grace and health for a long time.

Video on the topic

If a mammary tumor is detected in a cat, its owner will be very upset due to ignorance. In addition, many do not know the dangers of such education and what needs to be done with it. Pathologies of this type do not appear instantly, but changes are often detected by chance. Therefore, it is worth examining in more detail why a cat develops a tumor on the mammary gland and how it should be treated.

Mammary gland pathologies are often detected in cats. Moreover, neoplasms often have malignant form(in 80% of cases). According to the observations of doctors, there is a relationship between the age of the pet and the onset of the disease. Therefore, a young cat will be less susceptible to developing this disease. The increase in the number of identified tumor pathologies occurs in direct proportion to the number of years she has lived.

In addition, some pet breeds have increased chance development of such neoplasms. Thus, Siamese and Oriental breeds are more vulnerable. The development of mammary gland tumors in cats most often occurs after reaching 10 years of age. Exceptions are oriental breeds, in whom the development of pathology occurs even earlier. In addition, the chance of developing AMF is higher in pet breeds with short hair.

Types of tumors

New growths of the mammary gland that affect a cat are malignant and benign in nature. In addition, they differ in the characteristics of their growth. Benign tumors under the skin they develop slowly, but eventually reach impressive sizes and do not have metastases. A malignant compaction in the area of ​​the mammary glands causes metastasis, the development of necrotic processes, as well as intoxication of the body. Cats with this disease do not live long.

Benign pathologies of the organ are mammary hyperplasia. It manifests itself in the following forms:

• Focal;
• Fibroepithelial, cystic.

Moreover, both types develop due to high levels of progesterone in the cat’s blood, which is typical for unsterilized females.

A number of experts also classify a mammary gland cyst in a cat as such a formation. Therefore, it is also worth talking about it. It also develops due to hormonal imbalance in the body and is not serious illness. But it often degenerates into a malignant form, or opens after the development of purulent inflammation.

Timely treatment of benign pathologies has a favorable prognosis if it was an unopened cyst or a complicated formation. In this case, there is a significant risk of wound infection. In total, benign tumors are detected in 15% of all pathologies in this organ. Hormone-dependent carcinoma is often detected. It is a malignant formation in which metastases develop and rapid proliferation of atypical cells occurs, causing necrosis of the mammary glands.

Veterinarians give an extremely cautious prognosis for such a tumor due to the fact that when it reaches a size of more than 3 cm, it is extremely unfavorable. This is due to the frequent development of metastases in other organs, as well as the brain. This disease is also characterized by a high chance of relapse, even if it has already been operated on.

Symptoms

When a cat is pregnant or spends breast-feeding, she has a small lump (swelling). A similar situation can be noticed in the case of a false pregnancy. All these phenomena have similar manifestations to tumors, although they are not tumors. But because of this, many owners may already be wondering what to do and how long their pet will live.

Any, even minor, bump in the nipple area should cause concern. Often the pathology is a nodular formation located in the thoracic region. It often affects simultaneously several lobes of the gland, localized in one specific part of the body. May appear cystic formations. And when a cat has such a tumor, she tries to lick the affected area. At the same time, she experiences drowsiness, lethargy, and decreased appetite. If ulcers appear, tissue infection begins, accompanied by fever.

Adenocarcinoma, being the most frequent tumor this organ has the following manifestations:

• A minor formation that is located under the skin;
• Inflammation of tissue near the tumor;
• Development of ulcers, their bleeding (If they burst);
• Growth of lymph nodes;
• The appearance of pain;
• Fever;
• Development of the necrotic process;
• Significant decrease in appetite.

In the case when a cat has certain seals in the nipple area, the owner needs to immediately show it to the veterinarian to determine their nature. Based on the timeliness of detection of the pathology, as well as its type, not only the treatment depends, but also the possibility of survival of the pet itself.

Diagnostics

To differentiate the form, as well as the type of pathology, the treating veterinarian, in addition to examination and palpation, based on the need, prescribes the following diagnostic measures:

• Blood analysis. Often these are general and biochemical. They allow you to assess the pet’s condition and, if there are other pathologies, identify them;
• Ultrasound and X-ray chest. With their help, the exact localization of the main tumor is revealed, as well as the presence of metastases and from the location;
• Biopsy, or fine-needle aspiration of pathological tissues and lymph nodes for cytological examination;

It is also possible to identify the exact type of formation that affects a cat. histological examination tissue taken for biopsy. Due to this they choose suitable treatment tumors.

Treatment

Once a pet has been given a disappointing diagnosis of a tumor, removing the cat’s mammary tumor is often the only way to save his life. If the pathology is benign, then after removal surgery there will be an almost complete recovery. But it is important to do this before they start inflammatory processes or ulceration.

In case surgical treatment for certain reasons it is impossible to carry out, they are used conservative methods. Thus, for benign pathologies, the essence of such therapy will be to stop the growth and development of the pathology, as well as to prevent infection of the abnormal tissues. In addition, it is necessary to increase the animal’s immunity level.

For this purpose, various antitumor and antibacterial agents are used. This could be Dokosorubicin. Also, if cancer is present in pet, “Cyclophosphamide” is used, which has a cytostatic effect. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are also prescribed, which include Meroxicam, and painkillers and antibiotics are used.

When adenocarcinomas are detected, they are surgically removed. In this case, resection of pathological tissues is carried out, along with all tissues of the organ, to prevent metastasis. The procedure consists of several stages, due to the fact that a complete mastectomy when performed in one stage is extremely difficult for animals to tolerate. Next, a course of chemotherapy is prescribed. Due to their strong toxicity, blood and urine tests of the cat should be regularly carried out all the time they are taken. All this time the pet is in a hospital setting.

Having a furry pet in your home, you, of course, monitor its health. And as a caring and attentive owner, you should know the symptoms of breast cancer, since, unfortunately, cases of such a disease are far from uncommon.

Mature cats and dogs are especially predisposed to various diseases of the mammary glands. Having discovered the first signs of swelling of the mammary gland in an animal, follow Rule No. 1 - “Don’t panic!” and contact a veterinarian (or better yet, several).

Modern medicine (including veterinary) today has a large practice of treating cancer diseases. Look into the eyes of your pupil and realize the full extent of your responsibility for his life and well-being. " We are responsible for those we have tamed“—let these words become your motto and incentive for further action.

Complexity of the disease

Before you freak out about “my beloved cat/dog has incurable cancer,” breathe out, calm down and calmly figure out exactly what stages of the disease exist, how to identify its symptoms, and what to do in each case.

Diseases of the mammary glands have different levels difficulties - mastitis, mastopathy and tumor (not necessarily cancer).

The owner’s main task is to periodically feel the glands of his affectionate cat (smart dog) in order to detect any glandular compactions in time.

Let this become a habit for you and become a kind of ritual (preferably pleasant for the animal).

Mastitis

Today it is the most common disease. May occur after childbirth (or during false pregnancy). Its pronounced symptoms:

• In stage 1, the skin around the nipple becomes red and swollen, and the discharge contains blood or pus. (see photo).
• On the 2nd, an increase in the animal’s body temperature is possible.

Mastitis-like inflammation in cats and dogs goes away quickly and without any consequences in the future.

The only thing the owner can do is to isolate newborn kittens (puppies) and transfer them to artificial feeding so that the initiated milk from an unhealthy mother does not cause digestive upset in them.

Mastopathy

Causes hardening of the mammary glands, in which gray fluid accumulates. The skin around the nipple becomes bluish. Lumps are soft and elastic and are often the first warning signs of cancer.

As long as the hormonal glands of the cat/dog function without failure, the animal’s body independently fights the impending disease. But as soon as the hormonal levels are disrupted, cancer will not be slow to manifest itself.

In this case, it is necessary to support the work of the sexual and endocrine glands. Certain hormonal medications can help with this.

Tumor and its manifestations

Symptoms usually appear in adult pets (cats over 7 years of age and dogs over 5 years of age). The tumor can be benign or malignant (intraductal variant).

At the 1st stage they are practically no different. In both cases, when palpating the mammary gland, hard lumps are found (and they cannot be moved under the skin). Benign tumors usually have correct form and are formed on one of the glands (see photo). The animal does not experience discomfort. The main problem is that such tumors can develop into malignant tumors over time.

Here's attention!

Owners should closely monitor the growth of tumors.

If the size of the mammary gland tumor doubles (or even more) in 1 month, then immediately sound the alarm. It is quite possible that your pet has cancer. The only salvation will be the operation of the furry patient.

Forecast for the future with a terrible diagnosis

In breast cancer, the following stages of the disease are distinguished.

• At stage 1, the tumor is less than 2 centimeters. Dogs and cats have big chance for recovery after surgery.
• At stage 2 - a tumor measuring from 2 to 3 centimeters. Average duration after breast surgery – only 1 year.
• At stage 3 – the tumor exceeds 3 centimeters. Unfortunately, the animal is doomed.

Now you have seen for yourself that it is very important to identify the first symptoms of cancer as early as possible. Some owners even arrange an annual “preventive” examination of their furry friends using ultrasound. How much this suits you personally - decide for yourself. But veterinarians categorically insist on periodic palpation.

Pet's condition

If your four-legged friend is dear and close to you, then you will notice his unusual behavior without much effort. In case of malignant diseases of the mammary gland (cancer), both cats and dogs often lick the affected area and then chew it. The tumor opens, non-healing ulcers form on the skin, from which fluid is released.

Hurry up and consult a veterinarian - he will prescribe an ultrasound of the mammary glands and determine the operability of your beloved cat/dog.

But, in the case when the inexorable mammary gland cancer (intraductal) has spread its metastases throughout the pet’s body, then the operation will not solve anything. Fate has measured out for your friend short term. You must clearly understand this and the best thing you can do is to save your pet from suffering. Whatever remorse you may feel, be guided by the interests of your loved one.

Disease prevention measures

There is a practical possibility of preventing the development of breast cancer. If it is not important for you to have further offspring from a domestic cat/dog, then veterinarians recommend sterilizing it before its first heat. In this case, the likelihood of further breast diseases (cancer) tends to zero.

Spaying after the second (maximum third) heat reduces the risk of mammary gland diseases by 25 percent.

In any case, consult with specialists on this issue (veterinarians). We recommend visiting several clinics to have a complete understanding of breast diseases and ways to prevent them.

Let's summarize some results

Diseases of the mammary gland in cats and dogs are diagnosed as follows:

1. Mastitis. A painful manifestation (red, inflamed nipples), but it quickly goes away on its own.
2. Mastopathy– soft elastic seals. Does not cause any inconvenience and is associated with hormonal changes in organism. Support available medicines.
3. The tumor is benign– seals are solid. They practically do not increase in size and do not bother the pet. However, there is a danger of its developing into a malignant stage. The owner’s task is to control the growth of the tumor.
4. Malignant tumor (cancer). Has hard, fast growing seals. The operation is recommended at stage 1 of the disease (individual lesions up to 2 centimeters). Further enlargement of the lesion does not guarantee a positive outcome.

After you have carefully read the information presented and talked with veterinarians, you will be able to make an important decision about the future fate of your pet.

Every pet owner, of course, sincerely cares about them. Only this concern should not be selfish, but take into account, first of all, the interests of four-legged friend who loves you selflessly and is completely dependent on you. Be prudent and merciful towards him.

The concept of a tumor is familiar to many. Oncology does not bypass anyone - neither people nor animals. Every year this diagnosis is made more and more often. The most common type of tumor is mammary cancer in cats. It is this disease that worries most cat owners, especially those whose pets are elderly.

Causes of the disease

Despite the fact that medicine has made significant progress, and scientists are trying to identify the exact causes of cancer, the “causative agent” of cancer has never been identified.

The most common disease in cats is mammary cancer.

Mammary tumors in cats, according to doctors, develop due to certain predisposing factors that cause pathological change cells. One of them is taking hormonal drugs. Products such as Antisex and the like suppress the functioning of the ovaries and block the occurrence of estrus. Not every body is able to withstand hormonal disruption, and protects itself as best it can. It is this process, scientists believe, that is one of the culprits in the development malignant tumors in the mammary glands.

Stages of mammary cancer in cats

Just like in humans, cat mammary cancer has several stages. The method of treatment and prognosis for recovery depend on this.

Main stages of the disease:

1. First stage. Lymph nodes in cats are not changed in size. In the area of ​​the mammary gland there is a small compaction of soft consistency. The animal allows you to touch such a tumor, since it does not yet feel it.
2. Second stage. The consistency of the tumor becomes denser. But there is no metastasis yet.
3. Third stage. and increase in size, the tumor also grows. The animal gets angry when they try to touch the tumor, because it hurts even from the most gentle touches.
4. Fourth stage. This is the last stage of cancer. The cat is emaciated, the tumor has significantly increased in size. In this case even surgery does not guarantee an optimistic forecast. And not every veterinarian will perform an operation in such a neglected state. Usually painkillers are prescribed, or it is recommended to euthanize the cat.

In the first and second stages, doctors give favorable prognoses. The tumor in this case can be defeated through surgery or conservative treatment. The third stage is also not a 100% guarantee of death. But the last stage of cancer in cats leaves no hope for recovery.

Symptoms of breast cancer

At the time the disease develops, the cat may not yet show any symptoms. The only thing that will be noticeable is the presence of small nodules in the abdominal area. And here general state the animal will only change when the process has already gone too far. The cat will refuse to eat and stop acting active image life, will constantly retire to a place where no one touches her. The appearance of the pet will also change - it will rapidly lose weight.

Important. Most often, tumors occur in the first mammary glands, and in 50% of cases they affect several mammary glands.

Since the symptoms of cancer are extremely similar to a number of other health problems, owners need to carefully examine their pet. Only in this case will it be possible to understand in time that the cause of the cat’s illness was a tumor.

The following changes in the neoplasm indicate an oncological nature:

1. Nodules or bumps rapidly increase in size.
2. Formations are growing.
3. The development of the inflammatory process is obvious.
4. Ulcers begin to break out.
5. Seals cause pain to the animal.
6. Bleeding begins.

Diagnosis and diagnosis

If breast cancer is suspected, a biopsy is necessary.

Only a specialist knows what breast cancer looks like. Therefore, you should not diagnose your cat yourself by feeling its nodules and bumps. Even a veterinarian, before rendering his verdict, will have to carry out a series of laboratory research to find out the nature of the neoplasms.

The most common and reliable method for diagnosing oncology is tumor biopsy. With its help, the doctor will be able to accurately say whether this tumor is benign or not. Conduct this procedure extremely carefully to minimize the possibility of damage to healthy tissue.

Experienced doctors recommend performing a biopsy of the nearest lymph nodes, which are the “favorite” place for the growth of metastases. If the problem is detected in a timely manner, you can still try to solve it using conservative methods.

For an accurate diagnosis, the doctor will also prescribe:

1. X-ray and ultrasound. During the examination of the abdominal cavity, the doctor will be able to see whether the animal has metastases in other organs.
2. Blood and urine analysis.
3. Sometimes it is recommended to take a puncture of the tumor.

Only after a complete examination will it be possible to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe treatment.

Important. Unprofessional taking of a biopsy threatens the appearance of metastases in the cat’s body. Therefore, you should be careful when choosing a veterinary clinic.

Treatment methods

Most often, a malignant tumor is eliminated surgically by excising the tumor along with a large area of ​​healthy tissue. Lymph nodes are also removed. The surgeon will warn you before the operation that the cat may completely lose its mammary glands, but even in this case, he will not give a 100% guarantee of its complete recovery.

Removal operation cancerous tumor for a cat it is a very difficult procedure. And it completely depends on the stage of the disease, on the age of the animal and on its general condition. Many doctors do not see the point in operating on a cat even with the third stage of cancer, as they consider this an unjustified method. Therefore o surgical intervention at the fourth stage you don’t even have to speak.

The most effective treatment breast cancer - complete removal affected tissues.

Doctors give the most optimistic prognoses in case of surgery in the initial stages of the disease. And even if a cat’s mammary gland is completely cut out, it will be able to live for many more years.

After surgery to remove the cancerous tumor, the animal will be given radiation or chemotherapy. This procedure is for cats with a disease in initial stage, can be a salvation. If the doctor suggests doing without surgery and performing chemotherapy, it means that the animal’s chances of recovery exceed the risk of cancer developing to other stages.

Postoperative period: animal care

So that the operation gives positive results, you need to properly organize and post-operative care for the animal:

1. Create a comfortable environment for your cat so that she can recover from surgery in complete peace.
2. Feed her only those foods that are recommended by your veterinarian. Leave all the “goodies” and rewards for later.
3. Treat the wound several times a day and only with the products prescribed by a specialist.
4. Remember to give your cat medications in exactly prescribed doses and on schedule.
5. To prevent the seam from coming apart, use a special tightening blanket.

If the animal's condition worsens or its stitches come apart or begin to rot, immediately take the animal to the veterinarian!

In the first few days after surgery, your cat will need to have blood and urine tests taken to understand how the postoperative period is going. In the following months, the doctor recommends that you come to the clinic again for tests to exclude a relapse.

After the operation, the cat must be wearing a special blanket.

Preventive actions

Unfortunately, it is impossible to accurately define preventive measures regarding oncology, doctors cannot. But you can reduce your cat's risk of developing cancer.

1. even before the onset of puberty, or in the first two years of a cat’s life.
2. Examine the animal daily for the presence of tumors.
3. Carry out preventive examinations in veterinary clinic at least once every six months. This is especially true for animals at a critical age - 7-10 years.

Prognosis for breast cancer

By taking the necessary measures at the initial stage of the disease, you can hope that the cat will live for many more years. Unfortunately, the first stage is most often neglected. Therefore, more than 60% of cats who have had a tumor removed will experience cancer again. No less sad is that breast cancer is a rapid process. Therefore, doctors often predict a fairly short life span for a cat - no more than a year.

How long do cats live? intensive treatment, it’s difficult to say. If pet owners make every effort, the animal can live 2-3 years.

On video veterinarians talk about the treatment of breast cancer and prognosis for this disease.

Who is more susceptible to the disease?

Older cats - after 10 years - are at greater risk of developing mammary cancer. But the disease is rapidly getting younger, and today it is difficult to talk about exact age categories. What is known is that cats spayed before their first heat have not yet encountered mammary cancer. If the cat was sterilized after estrus, but did not give birth, the risk of developing malignant tumors is high.