Intestinal cancer in cats and dogs
The average age at which intestinal tumors are diagnosed ranges between 10–12 years for cats and 6 to 9 years for dogs. There are many different types of intestinal tumors, including lymphoma, adenocarcinoma, mast cell tumor, and leiomyosarcoma.
Signs and symptoms
[edit]The symptoms can vary but include weight loss, diarrhea, vomiting, and anorexia.
Diagnosis
[edit]The veterinarian will typically perform a series of tests such as blood tests and imaging studies. The most definitive way to confirm/rule out intestinal tumors is to perform a medical procedure called endoscopy to visualize the organ and do a tissue biopsy.[1]
Treatment
[edit]Surgical treatment remains the treatment of choice for cats and dogs diagnosed with intestinal tumors who are in otherwise good health.
References
[edit]- ^ Withrow SJ, MacEwen EG, eds. (2001). Small Animal Clinical Oncology (3rd ed.). W.B. Saunders Company.