Cancer Is A Threat To Animals Too

How To Prevent Cancer In Dogs and Cats

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Animals Can Get Cancer Too!

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in humans. However, cancer is just as threatening for dogs and cats. In fact, 8,000 dogs are diagnosed with cancer each day! Despite the efforts of cancer research scientists, there is no cure for cancer in humans or animals. However, we must learn how to minimize the risks of cancer and be prepared to fight back! That is why it is time we learn more about canine cancer.

Facts About Pet Cancer

Hundreds or thousands of dogs and cats are diagnosed with cancer each year. While that might sound shocking to you, it is the truth. Experienced veterinarians estimate that about half of 64 million dogs in the United States will have some type of cancer in their dog years of life. Sadly, 80% of dogs over the age of ten will die from cancer. The most important preventative measure is to diagnose and treat cancer as soon as possible before it spreads. Now that I made you aware of the doom and gloom of pets with cancer, there are some steps you can take to lower your pet’s risk for developing cancer.

How To Prevent Your Pet From Developing Cancer

 Toxic Chemicals in your Yard:

Never use chemicals such as fertilizers or weed killers on your lawn that your dog or cat will come into contact with. Chemicals are extremely toxic to their body and it is the leading cause of lymphoma in dogs. If you let your dog outside in your yard, my best advice is to avoid using any type of chemical! Lastly, remember that your dogs’ or cats’ nose will be very close to the ground. Therefore, even if your dog simply breathes in some of the toxic fumes, they could develop some type of cancer.

Too Much of A Tan Is Not Good For Your Pet

Animals can get too much sun too. The over exposure to sun may cause many cutaneous cancers, including sarcomas and carcinomas. If your dog is barking about how pale they are, tell them they will have to deal with it. You can even buy sunscreen for dogs on Amazon.com.

Spray Or Neuter Your Pets

Veterinarians recommend that all pets be sprayed or neutered to avoid the over population of animals in the community. In addition, vets also suggest owners to spray or neuter their pets to avoid mammary and testicular cancer.

Diet And Genetics:

Just like humans, the diet and history of the animal play an important role in developing cancer. Dogs need to be eating dog food that is rich in vitamins and minerals. Avoid feeding your pet cheap food or any food that is full of processed chemicals. A good cancer-fighting diet should be low in carbohydrates and high in Omega-3 fatty acids. Read the ingredients list throughly and make sure meat and vegetables are at the top of the list! In addition, lack of exercise will make your pet susceptible to developing cancer. Take your dog for a walk, it might even make you feel better.

Genetics also plays a big role in developing cancer. If the mother and father had cancer at one point, chances are their little ones will also develop cancer. Make sure you know your pets health history if possible. Genetics can be relevant through an entire breed or on a smaller scale through a breeding line.

Vaccinations:

Vaccinating your pet can play a role in causing cancer. Disturbingly, cancer is often diagnosed a month after a pet’s annual vaccination. Commonly, vaccination related tumors occur when a pet receives needle sticks in the same place every year. Vaccines are known to remain effective for much longer than a year. Therefore, your pet may not even need to be vaccinated. Ask your veterinarian if it is even necessary to vaccinate your pet.

Ten Signs of Cancer In Animals

Source: Dog Topics

Here are some common signs of cancer in animals.

1. Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow
2. Sores that do not heal
3. Weight loss
4. Loss of appetite
5. Bleeding or discharge from any body opening
6. Offensive odor
7. Difficulty eating or swallowing
8. Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina
9. Persistent lameness or stiffness
10. Difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating

Types of Cancer In Dogs and Cats

Source: Pet Health- Common Types of Cancer In Pets

Abdominal Cancer
Bladder Cancer
Bone Cancer or Osteosarcoma
Breast or mammary cancer
Feline Leukemia
Lymphoma
Mouth Cancer
Prostate Cancer
Skin Cancer
Testicular Cancer

If you follow this short guide on how to prevent cancer for your dog or cat, you will ensure that your dog will wag its tail for many years. Cat lovers will hear their cat purr for many years too!