How to Help and Support Your Cat Naturally During Cancer 2024

If only cats truly had nine lives!

While their impressive resilience will always surprise us, felines can become quite ill and need a boost from their human companions to recover.

Unfortunately, cats are not immune to cancer. Just like humans, they can develop several types of tumors and cancers.

If you’ve just received the bad news that your cat is battling cancer, know that we are truly sorry and our hearts go out to you. We hope this text will help you better understand the situation.

As a veterinary technician, I have witnessed several mass removal surgeries in animals. With proper care and the infinite love of their owner, animals can surprise us and bounce back very quickly.

Let’s explore together the upcoming lines that will discuss the causes of cancer in cats, its different types, and symptoms.

Read on to learn more about the natural treatments available to help cats combat this subtle demon. We will indeed suggest natural ways to fight cat cancer and explain how to shrink a tumor with our holistic remedies.

What are the causes of cancer and tumors in cats?

You may already know that a tumor is a mass formed by the anarchic multiplication of a certain type of cells. It is difficult to pinpoint the exact causes of cancer in cats; however, some risk factors are known, such as obesity, secondhand smoke, and certain viruses.

A cancer is referred to when a tumor is said to be malignant, meaning it grows rapidly, tends to migrate through the bloodstream (metastasis), and is at risk of recurrence. That said, cats can develop benign tumors, which are non-dangerous masses.

Risk factors for cancer in cats:

• Overweight
• Lack of physical exercise
• Secondhand smoke
• Prolonged sun exposure
• Feline leukemia virus (FeLV)
• Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), also known as cat AIDS

Since these last two viruses are contracted through contact with other cats, it is not incorrect to say that allowing a cat outdoors indirectly increases its risk of developing cancer in its lifetime.

Is cancer common in cats?

It is said that one in five cats will develop cancer in its lifetime.

Generally, older animals are at a higher risk of developing cancer; however, cats infected with viruses such as FeLV and FIV can develop cancers at quite a young age.

Among the most common cancers in cats are lymphoma and mammary tumors in females.

How to detect a tumor in a cat?

Whether benign (non-dangerous) or malignant (cancer), a tumor is most often detected by a lump under the skin. Only a laboratory analysis of the cells can confirm its nature.

Despite what one might think, a benign tumor can also sometimes create symptoms. For example, a benign mass in the brain could press on certain structures and thus lead to neurological signs.

That said, a tumor on an internal organ can be difficult to detect, which is why it’s important to pay attention to the following signs.

What are the symptoms of cancer in cats?

As with humans, the signs of cancer vary depending on the system or organ affected by the tumor(s). As mentioned earlier, you might notice a mass under your cat's skin, which is a good indicator.

Pet owners often become particularly alarmed when their animal changes its lifestyle habits. This can indeed be a sign that your cat is suffering.

Here is a non-exhaustive list of signs of a tumor in cats:

• Lump under the skin
• Abnormal odors
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Wounds that do not heal
• Reduced appetite
• Weight loss
• Coughing or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue, lethargy
• Increased thirst
• More frequent urination
• Pain

If your cat exhibits even one of these signs, we recommend consulting a veterinarian.

We invite you to learn more about these 10 signs of cancer in cats, because preventive detection is the best way to save our dear companions.

How long can a cat live with a tumor or cancer?

Some cats can live many years with appropriate treatment, while others may only have a lifespan of a few months. Therefore, there is no precise answer to this question. Only your veterinarian can provide their prognosis based on your cat's specific situation.

The type of cancer, its stage at diagnosis, the general health of the cat, and its response to treatments are all factors that can affect life expectancy. 

However, it is important to remember that even if some cases may seem desperate, every day is a gift and can be made comfortable with proper care and love. Each cat is unique, and quality of life should always be a priority when deciding on the best care pathway for a cat with cancer.

What is the terminal phase of cancer in cats?

The terminal phase of cancer in cats is often characterized by a rapid deterioration in health. The cat may lose significant weight, show a lack of interest in food, and display signs of pain or discomfort. It may also be lethargic and spend a lot of time sleeping.

In some cases, specific symptoms may appear depending on the type of cancer, such as coughing or breathing difficulties for lung cancer, mobility issues for bone cancer, etc. It is important to work closely with your veterinarian to manage symptoms and ensure your cat's comfort during this difficult time.

What are the most common types of cancer in cats?

Many cancers found in cats are also present in humans. They are primarily classified by the system in which the rogue cells develop. In fact, cats can have skin cancers, mammary tumors, and bone cancers. 

Lymphoma in cats

Lymphoma is a cancer that affects the lymph cells of cats, specifically the lymphocytes (white blood cells). It is the most common cancer in cats and has different forms depending on which organ is affected. Indeed, lymph tissue is found throughout the body.

It usually appears suddenly and is primarily seen in older cats or those infected with feline leukemia virus. The life expectancy of a cat with lymphoma is between two months and two years. 

Among the different types of lymphoma in cats, we find intestinal lymphoma, mediastinal lymphoma, renal lymphoma, and small and large cell lymphomas. Intestinal lymphoma, which affects the digestive tract, accounts for about ⅔ of lymphoma cases in cats.

Skin cancer in cats (melanoma and malignant melanoma)

Melanomas (benign or malignant) are skin tumors. They generally develop on the cat's head (eyes and ears), neck, or hind limbs.

Malignant melanomas are quite rare in cats. They tend to recur once surgically removed. Unfortunately, these are aggressive tumors in cats. 

Some forms of skin cancer are more treatable than others, and if detected and treated early, they can allow a cat to continue living a normal life for many years. However, some more aggressive skin cancers may have a shorter life expectancy, sometimes only a few months.

There are also other types of skin cancer in cats. They can develop basal cell carcinomas, mast cell tumors, and fibrosarcomas. Some fibrosarcomas can develop at an injection site following a vaccine.

This actually happened to a friend's cat. After vaccination, the small bump under the skin never resolved, and upon analysis, veterinarians found that cancer was developing. But don't worry, this is very rare.

Bone cancer in cats (osteosarcoma)

There are different types of bone cancer, but osteosarcoma is the most common. This cancer is characterized by uncontrolled multiplication of bone cells (often at the long bones) and usually causes pain, swelling, and limping.

The life expectancy is more encouraging for bone cancer in cats than in dogs. 

Cats with osteosarcoma can generally live from 1 to 4 years, depending on several factors, such as the location and stage of the disease. Although rather rare, this type of cancer is aggressive.

Liver cancer in cats

The liver cancer affects this organ, which is involved in the digestion process. A cat with this type of cancer may show digestive signs such as vomiting and loss of appetite.

Not all masses in the liver are cancerous. An ultrasound and biopsy can provide more information about the nature of a mass in the liver.

When we talk about liver cancer, we refer to the organ affected by the disease. Once again, there are several types of liver cancers. Here are a few examples: bile duct carcinomas, sarcomas, and myelolipomas.

The life expectancy of a cat with liver cancer varies greatly depending on these types. Carcinomas often have a positive life expectancy, with most cats living for years after diagnosis. Tumors like sarcomas, on the other hand, are often already spread by the time they are diagnosed, which means the life expectancy is shorter and the outlook is worse.

Learn more about liver cancer in this full article on this topic.

Bladder Cancer in Cats

Fortunately, this type of tumor is very rare in cats. However, if a cat shows symptoms of a severe urinary infection that does not resolve with treatment, it would be important to conduct further tests (such as an ultrasound) to rule out cancer. The symptoms are very similar.

Male and obese cats are said to be at greater risk of developing this kind of cancer.

It is known that between 50 and 70% of bladder tumors in cats are described as transitional cell carcinomas, which are the cells lining the inner wall of the bladder.

Stomach Cancer in Cats

A tumor can develop in the stomach. There is also a type of lymphoma that affects the digestive system. In any case, a cat with cancer in its stomach would show signs such as weight loss, vomiting (sometimes blood-tinged), and loss of appetite.

It has been reported that the majority of stomach tumors are malignant, as they have the ability to spread throughout the body and create what are called metastases. This is never good news. Fortunately, these cancers are not common in our cats.

Intestinal Cancer in Cats

When a tumor develops in a cat's intestines, the cat may show symptoms such as diarrhea and pain when its abdomen is palpated.

If the tumor becomes large, it is even possible for it to block the intestinal transit and complicate the situation.

Intestinal cancer is often diagnosed in older cats between 10 and 12 years.

Male cats are said to be at greater risk than females, and certain breeds are also more susceptible to this kind of cancer. I think, among others, of Siamese cats, which are 8 times more likely to develop intestinal cancer than other feline breeds.

Oral (Mouth) Cancer in Cats

The most common mouth cancer in cats is squamous cell carcinoma, also known as squamous cell carcinoma. It accounts for more than 75% of feline oral tumors.

Skin Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Cats

Although theoretically a skin cancer, this type of cancer often develops in the cat's oral cavity, though it is also observed on the nose and ears.

This disease is often fatal, as surgery is complicated due to its location, and its progression can harm the cat's feeding. This type of tumor responds more or less to chemotherapy.

Indeed, the life expectancy of a cat with an oral tumor like squamous cell carcinoma is a few months to 1 year. The malnutrition it causes hastens the decline of the sick animal's health.

Learn more about oral cancer in cats here.

Lung Cancer in Cats

Lung cancers are quite rare in cats. However, several other types of cancers can migrate to the lungs (metastases).

All respiratory symptoms in cats (coughing, difficulty breathing), especially in older cats, should be analyzed by a veterinarian quickly, as the situation can evolve very rapidly and become dramatic.

Indeed, older cats are at risk of developing this type of cancer. Persian breed cats are also more likely to develop it. As in humans, secondhand smoke can cause lung cancer in our pets.

Pancreatic cancer in cats

As the name suggests, pancreatic cancer attacks this organ that participates in digestion and the production of certain hormones, such as insulin. There are different types of pancreatic cancers, depending on the type of cells that develop uncontrollably.

The symptoms are often digestive, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. The prognosis is generally poor, as diagnosis often occurs too late.

Unfortunately, like in humans, pancreatic cancer can be rapid. The life expectancy of affected cats is about a few weeks to a few months. This is because when this cancer is diagnosed, it is often too late and metastases are already found throughout the body.

“Breast” cancer in cats (mammary gland carcinoma)

This type of cancer is very common in cats and affects their mammary glands.  85% of these tumors are reported as malignant. It is a very aggressive cancer that requires surgery at its onset.

Like in dogs, this type of cancer is more often observed in unspayed females, although it can also occur in spayed females.

Indeed, spaying a female cat before the age of 6 months reduces her risk of developing one or more mammary tumors by 91%! Quite significant, isn’t it?

Cats have 4 mammary glands on each side of their abdomen, and tumors can develop in any of these glands. Chains of tumors can sometimes be found in this area.

Leukemia (or leukemia) in cats

Feline leukemia is technically not a cancer in cats. It is actually a viral infection that causes immunodeficiency and can lead to cancers, such as lymphomas.

In more severe cases, the virus can spread in the blood to the bone marrow, white blood cells, and platelets, hence the resemblance to human leukemia.

This virus, which is part of the same large family as HIV (but is not contagious to humans), is transmitted between cats via saliva primarily.

Cats that roam outdoors are much more at risk of contracting it, as it is a highly contagious virus among cats. Mutual grooming, sharing litter boxes or water bowls, and sneezing are among several other means of transmission.

Fibrosarcoma in cats

Fibrosarcoma can appear anywhere, as it is a tumor that develops in the subcutaneous tissue and then in the muscles of the body. It usually does not cause pain upon palpation. This tumor tends to grow very quickly, to the point where it can ulcerate and necrose.

Cats diagnosed with fibrosarcoma can live up to 3 years with this disease. That said, if the mass is detected very early and surgery is performed to remove it, it is possible for a cat to gain several more years!

How to treat cancer in cats?

You are probably familiar with the conventional treatments used in humans, namely chemotherapy and radiotherapy, which are also options for treating our feline companions. Read on to learn about natural treatments to help your cat strengthen its immune system.

The PiptoAnimo is the mushroom Piptoporus Betulini. Medicinal mushrooms are specially designed to keep the body healthy at all times, even in the case of cancer and tumors. It is perfectly possible for long-term use, whether alone or in addition to other options you have selected!

It has been formulated to strengthen the immune system.

How to shrink a tumor in a cat?

Conventional treatments, namely chemotherapy and radiotherapy, are used to reduce the size of a tumor and kill the remaining cancer cells following the surgical removal of a mass.

Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are invasive and attack healthy cells as well as diseased cells. We suggest alternative natural treatments to optimize the fight against cancer cells without affecting healthy cells.

As the name suggests, chemotherapy involves administering a chemical treatment, which means powerful drugs, through an intravenous line or orally. Less than a quarter of animals exhibit side effects from this therapy, unlike humans.

Radiotherapy, also known as radiation therapy, involves sending targeted radiation to a tumor with the goal of completely destroying it or reducing its size.

This requires several treatments, and the animal must be anesthetized each time, as it needs to be completely immobile.

Surgery is often an option to consider. I personally witnessed a surgery to remove a mass the size of a tennis ball from between the shoulder blades of a poor cat. This tumor had surprisingly developed in less than two months! The surgery was successful, and it cured this cat, which is now in great shape.

How to shrink a tumor in a cat naturally?

So, I just described the classic and recognized methods for shrinking tumors, whether in cats or humans. However, there are less invasive natural treatments, such as antioxidants and medicinal mushrooms for feline cancer. See below for our suggestions.

How to naturally promote the health of your cat with cancer?

The following alternative natural treatments can be used alone or in combination with conventional cat cancer treatments. In advanced cases where surgery is necessary, natural remedies are a good complement.

Nutrition

It is well known that nutrition plays a major role in the well-being of any individual. A good diet helps strengthen the immune system, and certain foods can even help combat cancer naturally and directly. You will find some examples in the following paragraphs.

One thing to keep in mind is to encourage water consumption so that the animal stays well hydrated, which is essential for the proper functioning of its body.

You can offer your cat canned food with a little hot water added, for example. Another important point is to provide high-quality food that can be supplemented with omega-3s. This will help the animal maintain good muscle mass, which is equally important in its fight.

Here is a summary of the main points to remember for feeding your cat with cancer:

How to feed a cat with cancer?

• High-quality proteins: A diet rich in high-quality proteins is essential for cats with cancer. This can help support their immune system and maintain their body mass. Foods with high biological value, such as meats and eggs, are excellent sources of protein.

• EASILY DIGESTIBLE FATS: Fats are a dense source of energy that can help a cat with cancer gain or maintain weight. However, these fats should be easily digestible, such as those found in fish oils and certain vegetable oils.

• Hydration: Ensure that your cat always has access to fresh water. Cats with cancer may be at increased risk of dehydration due to the side effects of treatment or the disease itself.

• Appetite stimulants: If your cat shows a lack of interest in food or has difficulty eating, you may want to consult your veterinarian about possible appetite stimulants.

• Special dietary requirements: Some cats with cancer may have special dietary needs. Your veterinarian can guide you on this based on your cat's specific condition and the type of cancer.

• Frequent small meals: Instead of giving your cat large meals, provide smaller portions more frequently throughout the day. This may be easier for a cat with cancer to manage and can help maintain its interest in food.

Antioxidants

The normal action of metabolism produces what are called free radicals, which are harmful to the body. Indeed, free radicals attack cells and can lead to serious diseases, such as cancer.

By having an intake of antioxidants through diet, we ensure control over these toxic molecules and thus help prevent cancer.

It may therefore be beneficial to add certain sources of antioxidants to your cat's diet without drastically changing its diet.

You could add a small amount of certain fruits and vegetables to its diet, such as broccoli, carrots, and butternut squash. Be sure to cook them properly first.

Curcumin

Curcumin is the active ingredient found in the well-known turmeric. It is attributed with anti-inflammatory properties and may even have the ability to slow the growth of certain tumors and cancers.

Thus, it is an interesting remedy for treating cat cancer naturally. Consult with your veterinarian if curcumin is appropriate for your cat.

Medicinal mushrooms

Mushrooms are part of a mysterious world, in symbiosis with the rest of nature. Some mushrooms are deadly, while others can literally save lives. Some people even see them as a miracle remedy or medicine for cancer or tumors.

However, caution should be exercised when considering using mushrooms as a natural treatment for cat cancer. It is important to ensure the quality of the product. We do not recommend going into the forest and foraging yourself, as many mushrooms look alike and there are specific foraging guidelines that must be respected.

That said, we are here to guide you, and we have prepared several natural remedies based on medicinal mushrooms for you to utilize their properties.

Among the medicinal mushrooms available are the popular chaga, shiitake, and cordyceps.

These can be used alone or in combination with conventional medicine.

How to Prevent Cancer in Cats?

Often we must and want to prevent rather than cure! PiptoAnimo helps ensure that your pet maintains good overall health and therefore a strong immune system.

Keeping your cat indoors to prevent it from contracting viruses that could harm its immunity is also an effective strategy in cancer prevention.

Finally, spaying at a young age helps prevent mammary gland cancer in females.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we all know that a battle against cancer is a significant challenge. You are not alone in this ordeal. We, along with your veterinary team, are here to support you and your kitty.

Do not lose hope if your cat is in this situation; many animals surprise us with their extreme resilience.

And who knows, perhaps your cat really does have nine lives!

Is your cat fighting cancer? What type of cancer does it have, and how is it doing? Share its story with us in the comments below.

Contact us if you wish to discuss your pet's specific situation with one of our experts.

You can also obtain a Free Health Recommendation for Animals. In addition to receiving advice and recommendations from our Natural Health Advisors, they will also guide you through the products and treatment options that best suit your pet's health needs.