Neoplasia is is a life-threatening condition both to human and pets. According to the Veterinary Cancer Society, around 1 in 4 dogs will, at some stage in their life, develop neoplasia. About 50% of dogs over the age of 10 will develop neoplasia. Neoplasia is also a leading cause of death for older cats as well. The symptoms in our feline friends can be subtle as they are good at masking their illness.
Causes
It is difficult to define the exact cause of neoplasia in pets. For certain dog breeds like golden retrievers and Scottish terriers, their genetics appear to make them more prone to develop such a condition. Neoplasia, on the other hand, can sometimes be caused by viruses. Feline leukemia virus in cats is an example. Other environmental factors such as excessive sunlight exposure, hormones, and toxins (second-hand smoke, household chemicals) have also been associated with its development.
Common Types
Lymphoma –
In cats, lymphoma can be caused by the feline leukemia virus. It can be divided into several different forms. The digestive tract is the most common affected system. Cancer can be developed in stomach, intestines and liver. For dogs, the most common form of lymphoma is involvement of one or more of the external lymph nodes. Swollen lymph nodes may be palpable under the jaw, in front of the shoulders, or behind the knees.
Mast cell tumors –
it is a form of neoplasia involving the skin of your pets. Mast cells are cells that reside in the connective tissues, especially the vessels and nerves that are close to the external surface of your pet (skin, lungs, nose, and mouth). Mast cell tumors are graded according to their location, presence of inflammation and how well they are differentiated.
Mammary tumour –
According to the Veterinary Cancer Society, this is the most common type of cancer found in dogs. Spaying female pups before they go into heat can drastically reduce the risk.
Osteosarcoma –
This is a painful and aggressive type of bone cancer that can be found in both cats and dogs. Larger dog breeds are more commonly affected. Unexplained lameness or sudden bone fracture may be seen in dogs with osteosarcoma. Osteosarcoma not only affects the limbs of large or giant breed dogs, but also occurs in other parts of the bone structures (skull, ribs, vertebrae, pelvis).
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