When Pets Get Cancer: Thoughts for Human Survivors

As much cancer as I have dealt with in friends, family and myself, I learned a lesson recently when a friend’s cat went through treatment for a rare bone cancer. Some of the same emotions apply. My heart went out to my friend as I was sad to hear of a diagnosis and very happy when her cat got a good chance at survival. Would I go to the same lengths to save one of my beloved pets? I think experiencing breast cancer as a human has made me more likely to.

The pre-cancer Felicia was more fatalistic. Pets lived, and they died. I would see to regular check-ups, of course, and necessary shots. When a few pets in my life ended up being diagnosed with cancer, it was always too late to do anything other than make them comfortable. For example, the summer the vet told me my Tutti had cancer, while I spoiled him with food, I did not seek remedies for what was a terminal illness. My friend was fortunate to find her cat’s rare cancer coincidentally via a scan after her cat experienced a simple injury. In retrospect, learning as I go through life, I wonder if I should have noticed signs in Tutti before it was too late.

Since my cancer, my heart has grown softer. Not long after I finished treatment, a coyote tried to kill Charles the Cat after he slipped out of the pet door in the middle of the night. When I found him mortally wounded in the morning, hiding upstairs, I did something I had said I would never do. I carried him to my vet and said, “I don’t care how much it costs.” While Charles the Cat did not have cancer, I was happy to spend my new car fund on his care. His treatment allowed him another year and gave me a little solace during a very rough period of my life when I lost both my mother and a close friend while working through cancer.

Now I look at my cats Lucy (about whom I have written in the context of lymphedema) and Fluff and hope I will never have to worry about a cancer diagnosis or other health crisis. If either were to be diagnosed with cancer, I would consider relevant treatment if they had some life left in them since I am now more likely to initiate a conversation about healing. I would also ask more about palliative care to prevent a pet from suffering through a terminal diagnosis.

Although cancer in animals is sometimes found accidentally, or too late, there are things we can do in the meantime. As with humans, cats can exhibit signs. Bumps and lumps, weight loss, changes in demeanor — all are red flags for another vet visit between annual visits. Cancer screenings are available when advisable. While I hope my cats never have to worry about a scary diagnosis, I think I am now emotionally prepared just in case.

This piece reflects the author’s personal experience and perspective. For medical advice, please consult your health care provider.

For more news on cancer updates, research and education, don’t forget to subscribe to CURE®’s newsletters here.