National Pet Cancer Awareness Month

It’s  National Pet Cancer Awareness Month. Cancer is the number one disease-related cause of death for dogs and cats and it’s important that we know the signs and symptoms to detect the disease as early as possible.  Monitor your pet closely and if you notice any of these symptoms consult your veterinarian.  Due to the advances in early recognition, diagnosis, and treatments pets have a better chance of successfully recovering with treatment than ever before. 

Cancer by the Numbers:

• Cancer accounts for nearly half of all disease-related pet deaths every year
• 1/2 of all dogs over the age of 10 are likely to develop cancer 
• Approximately one in four dogs will develop cancer at one point in its life
• Cancer is more common in dogs, but tends to be more aggressive in cats

Signs and Symptoms:

• Suspicious lumps that develop on or under your pet’s skin (these should be biopsied by your veterinarian) 
• Enlarged stomach 
• Wounds that do not heal 
• Sudden and persistent lack of appetite 
• Coughing and difficulty breathing
• Lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea and changes in urination

Treatment:

• Surgery
• Radiation
• Chemotherapy
• Continuous research is being conducted 
• PetFirst Pet Insurance is here to help cover the expenses of exams, diagnosis, and treatment due to cancer illnesses (as long as it is not considered a pre-existing condition). Get a quote today and make sure your pet is covered. 

What Can You Do Now?

• Keep your pets healthy with a high-quality food diet, exercise, and regular visits with your veterinarian 
• Spaying or neutering your pet before its first cycle 
• Some purebreds are more prone to certain types of cancer, you can work with your veterinarian to develop a customized prevention plan – read more on those breeds here 

Additional Resources:

• AVMA
• Vet Cancer Society