Important: Warning Signs of Cancer in Dogs

As with humans, so with animals – the earlier a malignant disease is detected, the better the chances of survival. Therefore, pay attention to any changes in the behavior and appearance of your pet

He collapsed

If your dog collapses, be sure to see a vet right away. Collapse, weakness, and lethargy (not behaving as usual, not barking when someone is at the door, or less interactive) are common signs of cancer. I see this especially in large breeds. Even if something gets better the next day, be sure to take the animal for an examination because it may indicate a spleen tumor – says Dr. Jake Zaidel, a veterinarian from Malta Animal Hospital in the USA.

Cough


Coughing does not necessarily mean that cancer has occurred in the animal’s body. For example, in small breeds this may be an indication of tracheal problems.

If a dog coughs once or twice, there is no reason to worry. But if he continues to cough for more than a few days, it is a serious cause for concern and may indicate lung cancer – says Dr. Zaidel.

Lose weight


The vet says that weight loss is the number one symptom he sees in his practice.

It is often a sign of a gastrointestinal tumor. I had a lot of dogs that stopped eating because of that type of cancer so they lost weight very quickly, ”he said.

In addition, he adds, it also happens that dogs lose weight even though they eat with the same appetite as usual. In any case, if you notice that your pet is losing weight, fast or slow, be sure to visit a veterinarian.

Changes in the mouth


Ulcers, lumps, a strange smell, bleeding or discoloration of the gums can be a sign of oral cancer, especially in older dogs. Unfortunately, this type of cancer in dogs often goes unnoticed for too long.

We usually find visible oral tumors because people do not examine their pet’s mouth. Many oral tumors can be really devastating, because they are not detected until they progress too much – says Dr. Zaidel and advises regular brushing of the animal’s teeth.

When your pet yawns or eats, try to pay attention to the inside of his mouth and react immediately if you notice any changes or see something unusual.

Bleeding from the nose

Bleeding from the nose is never normal. In older dogs, this is especially worrying because it can be a sign of a tumor in the nose. Younger dogs are known to do things like a foreign object that is stuck – explains Timothy Rocha, a veterinarian and oncology specialist from New York.

Diarrhea and other changes


Changes in the performance of large and small urination can potentially indicate a malignant disease. Occasional diarrhea does not necessarily mean severe illness, but if it lasts too long, be sure to visit a veterinarian. Also, pay attention to other changes, such as asking the animal too often to defecate, difficulty urinating and bowel movements, vomiting, blood in the urine or stool – these may be signs of cancer.

Nasal discharge


Persistent discharge from the nose or eyes are good reasons for concern. Nasal discharge can indicate a facial tumor, and from the eyes – an eye tumor.

Convulsions

Convulsions can be a sign of brain tumors and are usually noticed in older dogs with cancer – says Dr. Zaidel.

If you notice sudden and uncontrolled attacks of certain activities, such as squeezing and chewing, twitching of the legs or foaming at the mouth, your dog may experience convulsions and you should see a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Skin changes

It is necessary to check for any lumps, bumps or changes in the skin. It can be benign or carcinogenic, but it is always easier to treat an earlier form of cancer. Also, pay attention to ulcers that do not heal those lesions that itch and hurt – explains Dr. Zaidel.

Weight gain


And sudden weight gain or bloating can indicate cancer in dogs. If your pet eats less and feels bigger, be sure to visit a veterinarian. Also, a sudden jump in appetite can be a cause for concern.

General pain or discomfort

Pain is a very significant symptom of cancer. If your dog whines or cries when you pat him on the stomach or when you pick him up, call your vet – says Dr. Zaidel adds that tumors in the mouth can cause visible discomfort during meals, reports Reader’s Digest.

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