Feline Lymphoma: What Every Cat Owner Needs To Know

Did you know that feline lymphoma is one of the most common forms of feline cancer?  If your cat has just been diagnosed, you have many questions.  What is lymphoma?  Can your cat be treated for it?  Is it connected to the feline leukemia virus? 

Basics of Lymphoma In Cats

This disease is also known as "lymphosarcoma in cats."  A "sarcoma" is a type of malignant tumor.  A sarcoma that occurs in the lymphatic system is called a "lymphosarcoma."

The lymphatic system is made up lymph nodes connected by a system of lymph vessels.  This system is an important part of your kitty's immune system.  Lymphocytes are cells in the lymphatic system.  These cells have many roles, including producing antibodies, and attacking and destroying bacteria and viruses. 

If the lymphocytes should become cancerous, the lymph node will become hard and swollen.  The malignant cells easily travel through the lymphatic sytem to all other lymph nodes in the body.  Eventually the malignant cells spread to the bone marrow.  Since the bone marrow produces red blood cells, severe and fatal anemia results.

The malignant cells also spread to every organ in the body, and can cause tumors in nearly any organ.  However, tumors in cats are usually found in their intestines.

Symptoms Of Feline Lyphoma

It's important for every cat owner to know the warning signs of cancer in cats LINK.  Symptoms of lymphosarcoma in cats include:

• Swollen lymph nodes
• Anemia
• Weight loss
• Rough hair coat
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Fluid in the lungs
• Trouble breathing
• Facial swelling
• Pale gums due to anemia
• Weakness

Treatment of Feline Lymphoma

Feline chemotherapy is the usual treatment for this disease.  Your vet may want to refer your cat to a veterinary oncologist so that your kitty can receive the newest treatment. 

Chemotherapy can extend your cat's life for four to six months.  The good news is that 30-40% of the cats who respond to chemo often go into a remission that can last for two or more years.  A cat that is not treated has a life expectancy of four to six weeks. 

What Is The Link With The Feline Leukemia Virus?

In the past, studies showed that up to 70% of cats who tested positive for the feline leukemia virus would go on to develop lymphoma in cats.  This is why this type of feline cancer was common in younger cats. 

However, more recent studies are showing that since more cats are being vaccininated against feline leukemia or being treated for it, fewer younger cats are developing lymphoma.  Many of the cats who develop lymphosarcoma now test negative for feline leukemia, and feline lymphoma is now becoming a disease usually seen in cats that are nine or ten years old.

Can Lymphoma In Cats Be Prevented?

Right now it's not possible to prevent any type of cancer in cats.  However, limiting your cat's exposure to cigarette smoke and other environmental toxins may help.  Feeding him a high-quality canned food will also keep him healthy and promote a strong immune system.

Do your kitty a favor and know what the early warning signs of feline cancer are.  The earlier any type of cancer is found, the better your cat's chances are that treatment will extend his life for a year or more.