Have you had your pet checked for cancer?
Owners are advised to get a health check for older pets at least every year, if not every six months.
The Times met up with Dr Heather Pearson, veterinarian at Mercury Street Veterinary Hospital, to learn more about cancer.
What causes cancer?
Genetics and environmental influences could contribute to the risk of pets getting cancer, but the underlying causes of most cancers are unknown.
Cancer can occur at any age, but cancer is more likely to be seen in older animals.
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In that way, we can find something the owner might have missed.
Larger dogs from seven years and smaller dogs from 10 are more likely to get cancer.
What are the common types of cancer in pets?
Common cancer seen here Johannesburg is skin cancer caused by the sun, particularly on dogs and cats with white fur. This could affect the dog’s stomach and the cat’s ears and nose.
Other cancers include:
• Lymphoma
• Hemangiosarcoma
•Osteosarcoma
• Mammary cancer
• Mast cell tumours
What signs should pet owners look for?
It is really important for pet owners to look after their pets and to look for signs. If certain cancers can be detected early they can be cured.
Signs to look out for:
• Drastic weight loss
• Lack of appetite
• Lumps that are growing fast
• Changes in the animal’s behaviour, eg dogs that sleep all the time.
Types of treatments:
There are various types of treatment, depending on the type of cancer. The cost of each treatment is also different to each kind of cancer being treated.
The kinds of treatment include:
• Surgery
• Radiation
• Chemotherapy
How can pet owners reduce the chances of their pets getting cancer?
• Get lumps checked, especially if they are growing fast.
• Keep your pet out of the sun between 9am and 4pm.
• Feed your pets food containing antioxidants with no artificial colourants and preservatives.
Most cancers are treatable if detected early.
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