While mammary cancer is less prevalent in cats than in dogs, it is no less serious. In fact, when it does occur in felines, it often presents as a malignant form that can be quite challenging to treat. This article aims to shed light on the risks, symptoms, and treatment options for mammary cancer in cats, providing cat owners with the knowledge they need to safeguard their furry companions.
Which Cats are at Risk for Mammary Cancer?
Mammary cancer can affect any adult female cat, with the average age of onset being between 10 to 14 years. Siamese cats, in particular, have a genetic predisposition, making them twice as likely to develop the disease. Unspayed females face a significantly higher risk, as do those spayed after experiencing one or more heat cycles. Although rare, mammary cancer can also affect male cats.
Types of Mammary Cancer in Cats
Research indicates that approximately 85% of mammary tumors in cats are malignant adenocarcinomas, which are highly aggressive and prone to metastasizing. The remaining 15% consist of less aggressive types such as duct papillomas, sarcomas, and adenomas.
Symptoms of Mammary Tumors in Cats
Mammary tumors in cats typically manifest as firm nodules that may be movable or firmly attached to the skin or underlying muscle. Roughly a quarter of these tumors ulcerate. They are most commonly found in the first front sets of mammary glands, and in about half of the cases, they affect more than one gland. Accompanying symptoms may include swelling, pain, infection, and fever.
Treatment Options
The primary treatment for mammary cancer consists of surgically removing the tumor along with the surrounding mammary gland. Some surgeons advocate for the complete removal of the entire mammary gland chain due to the aggressive nature of these tumors and the high metastasis rate associated with adenocarcinomas. Post-surgical chemotherapy is often employed to enhance survivability rates, and consulting with a boarded veterinary oncologist is highly recommended due to the technical expertise required for administering the most effective chemotherapy drugs.
Prognosis for Cats with Mammary Cancer
Although initial treatments for mammary cancer in cats can be successful, the long-term prognosis is generally cautious. Recurrence within a year is common, affecting up to 65% of surgically removed tumors. The majority of cats survive for less than a year after diagnosis. However, cats that receive aggressive treatment for small tumors detected early may live for 2 to 3 years.
Prevention Strategies
While mammary cancer in cats cannot be entirely prevented, several measures can reduce the risk. Early spaying before the first heat cycle is crucial, as there is a strong link between early spaying and a decreased incidence of mammary tumors. Avoiding progesterone-like drugs, which can increase the risk of mammary cancer, is also important. Regular veterinary checkups are essential, and cat owners should perform their own inspections for any unusual lumps or bumps, particularly in the mammary region, to ensure early detection and treatment.