Breast cancer in cats: classification, symptoms, treatment at different stages. How to treat a cat's mammary tumor

Mammary cancer is a disease that occurs in less than 10% of cats by age seven. Since survival rate for such a dangerous cancer directly depends on the stage of detection, owners should devote enough time and attention to regular examinations of their pet.

Despite the fact that most often cancer diagnosed in females, males are also susceptible to developing cancer. Unfortunately, more than 90% of mammary tumors identified in animals are malignant in nature. The prognosis in most cases is disappointing, because the disease is characterized by rapid metastasis.

On early stages During development, a malignant tumor may be pea-shaped and feel like a thickening of the subcutaneous tissue.

It is necessary to show the animal to a veterinarian immediately after detecting an abnormal neoplasm. Any seals, fistulas, ulcers and even pimples should alert you.

A grade I tumor usually does not metastasize, which allows almost 70% of animals to survive treatment. But if the compaction is ignored, it will begin to grow quickly. The animal's mammary glands will become very large and heavy. Eventually, the growth will break through the skin and form an open ulcer. If a tumor of II degree of malignancy is detected, the animal is usually prescribed surgery in combination with chemotherapy. Only 49-50% of animals will be able to survive complex treatment.

The most disappointing prognosis for detecting a tumor III degree. The last stage of mammary cancer in a cat is characterized by the spread of malignant cells to neighboring organs, immediate and distant The lymph nodes, head and Bone marrow. In most cases, treatment will be purely symptomatic, aimed not at eliminating the tumor and numerous metastases, but at improving the pet’s quality of life.

Types of malignant tumors

The most common type of mammary cancer in cats is malignant carcinoma. The most dangerous subtype of carcinoma: glandular (second name: adenocarcinoma). Initially, a small dense knot forms near the animal’s nipple ( papillary carcinoma). With absence medical intervention, malignant cells begin to affect surrounding tissues, and glandular cancer is diagnosed. Adenocarcinoma is dangerous because it can quickly metastasize not only to glandular tissues and lymph nodes, but also to other organs.

The anaplastic type of carcinoma is characterized by low differentiation (absence of a clearly defined tumor) and high speed metastasis.

Less common (but no less dangerous) forms of cancer:

• leaf-shaped fibroadenoma (a large smooth tumor with clearly defined borders; considered a presarcoma);
• sarcoma (the neoplasm has a lumpy structure; the affected mammary glands of the animal look inflamed);
• papillomatosis (a non-tumor type, which is characterized by blockage of the milk ducts; initially the cells may be benign, but quickly become malignant).

Mixed types of the disease are also quite common. But it is impossible to determine the nature of the tumor without a biopsy. Therefore, it is impossible to independently diagnose mammary gland cancer in a cat based on photos on the Internet. .

Causes and signs of the disease

Experts in the field of veterinary oncology identify several factors that significantly increase the risk of developing oncological diseases in cats. Most often, malignant neoplasms are diagnosed in elderly females who have never given birth. To prevent the disease, before sterilization it is recommended to allow the female to give birth to at least one litter. It has also been proven that there is a direct relationship between hormonal therapy and the development of malignant tumors (including in males). Medicines containing estrogen are especially dangerous.

Breeds with short hair are most prone to mammary cancer (BC).

Any responsible owner should be wary following symptoms mammary cancer in cats:

• swelling of the nipples;
• hard subcutaneous nodes in the abdominal area;
• abnormal nipple discharge;
• the appearance of ulcers on the skin of the abdomen;
• fever;
• rapid weight loss;
• refusal to eat;
• constant weakness.

It is very important to show your pet to the veterinarian in a timely manner, because any delay can lead to death.

Diagnosis of cancer

Detection of even a millimeter thickening should be a reason to contact a specialized clinic. The veterinarian will perform a complete physical examination, paying most attention to the area with growths. The doctor will definitely palpate the lymph nodes: their enlargement may indicate that the process of metastasis has begun.

But to make a final diagnosis, determine the stage and type of the disease, a fine-needle biopsy is mandatory, cytological examination And comprehensive analysis blood (which will allow you to evaluate general state health of the sick animal). Additional diagnostic tests may include urinalysis and blood clotting time.

Next, you will be given directions to computed tomography. Only a three-dimensional image will allow you to determine the size, exact localization of the tumor and the presence of metastases. If the process of metastasis is confirmed, then an additional ultrasound examination is performed abdominal cavity, to detect affected organs.

Treatment methods

Just a few years ago, the discovery of a malignant tumor in a pet meant a death sentence. But thanks to recent advances in veterinary medicine, cancer is no longer a "head for euthanasia." Treatment for mammary cancer in cats depends on the location, type and stage of tumor development. The good news is that in the early stages of the disease (if a well-differentiated tumor without metastasis has been identified), the survival rate is more than 85%.

Surgical intervention

Surgery is the main method of treating breast cancer. The type of intervention is determined according to the results diagnostic studies. If the malignant tumor is small in size and has clearly defined boundaries, then organ-sparing surgery is performed: lumpectomy. In this case, only the tumor itself is removed. In the diffuse form of the disease (when the tumor grows not only in the mucous membrane, but also muscle layer), the entire package of mammary glands is removed. In later stages, when malignant cells spread to surrounding tissues, lymph nodes may be prescribed following types operations:

• unilateral mastectomy (all glands and regional lymph nodes on the affected side are removed);
• bilateral mastectomy (removal of paired glands);
• radical mastectomy(removal of all mammary glands, including nearby lymph nodes).

If the cancer is actively metastatic, the surgeon may additionally remove distant lymph nodes (often inguinal and axillary), based on already known routes of lymphatic drainage.

Many owners worry that the animal will not be able to drive full life after such an operation. Despite the fact that the procedure is quite aggressive, with a successful outcome there is an almost 90% guarantee of no relapse.

Chemotherapy

If surgery to remove mammary cancer in cats is not possible for certain reasons (for example, due to extensive metastasis, heart and blood diseases), then chemotherapy is prescribed. A course of aggressive medications is unlikely to help completely remove malignancy, but will help the pet live for several more years. Chemotherapy may also be recommended to remove metastases, especially for those animals that have successfully undergone surgery to remove the tumor.

There is no need to worry that after chemotherapy furry pet will become completely bald. Unlike people, who actually lose their hair after a similar procedure, animals keep their fur coat.

Chemotherapy must be carried out by a veterinarian in a specialized medical center. You need to prepare for the fact that for some time after chemotherapy is completed, your pet will constantly sleep and refuse food.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy is rarely the first choice for the treatment of cancer in veterinary medicine. Radiation is prescribed if surgery and chemotherapy do not work or are contraindicated.

The technique is quite effective, but specialized veterinary equipment is available only in very major cities. For achievement positive result You will need at least three sessions with a break of several days. But the final radiation program is developed by a veterinary radiologist, based on the results of diagnostic tests and medical history.

Survival prognosis

How long a cat with mammary cancer will live depends on many factors. The veterinarian will be able to give an approximate prognosis only after a biopsy. When cancer is detected and treated at its earliest stages, the one-year survival rate is about 70%. And only 5% of animals will survive more than a year from the moment of cancer diagnosis to last stage.

Detection of cancer is a challenge for both the pet and its owner. However, you should not immediately think about euthanasia. Modern procedures and the drugs will allow, if not cure the pet, then significantly prolong its life.

You can also ask a question to our site's staff veterinarian, who as soon as possible will answer them in the comment box below.

Hello. I have a cat, she is 16 years old, she gave birth, then she underwent sterilization and the uterus was completely removed. Now by right side A lump has formed on my chest, the lump has a hole, I apply bandages with peroxide and levomekol. The diameter is 1.5 cm. A tumor also formed below, but it did not open. The cat usually feels like it allows treatment. Three months ago, nothing was exactly the same as when I bathed it and carefully examined everything. Today I took her to the doctor; upon examination, the doctor said stage 4 cancer. Can offer cosmetic surgery, which will slightly extend the life of the cat. No tests were done. He advised me to continue applying the ointment and disinfecting it. I listened to the lungs and there was no particular wheezing. But he didn’t give a guarantee for the operation, he said he might not survive it. Tell me what to do?

• Aigul 17:14 | 31 Mar. 2019

  Hello! I have a Siamese cat, she is 14 years old. Bumps began to grow in the area of ​​the mammary glands. They didn't pay attention right away. We almost never pick it up. The other day she started severe shortness of breath. The veterinarian did an ultrasound and said it was hydrothorax. After the puncture, an x-ray was taken. They said that there were metastases in the lungs. No medications were prescribed, only prednisolone. They said there was nothing they could do to help her. Is this really so?

• Lyudmila 18:30 | 24 Feb. 2019

  Hello. My cat is 13 years old. I found a very dense lump on her stomach, but not a small one in the mammary gland. We saw a surgeon, did an x-ray, there were no metastases. He said that if you perform an operation to remove cancer, it will only be cosmetic. It is useless to do chemistry. And if everything goes well in best case scenario she will live only 5 months. Should we go to an oncologist? Should I even do this operation? The cat's behavior is normal, the tumor allows you to touch it, and does not worry.

• Hello. The cat is 15 years old. They removed a ridge of mammary glands. 3 years have passed. Now she again has a small lump and something around her. Sometimes she gave her bifidumbacterin. This drug could provoke a relapse. Now she has lost weight, but she eats and sometimes plays. And today She became sad. She is sterilized, eats Urinari Royal Canin. I read that you need to limit proteins, what food to feed her? And I also started giving 1 tablet of Metastop. Please tell me about the food and what to do next. I’m very worried.

• Hello. The cat is 12 years old, not spayed, has not given birth; On the left, next to the uppermost nipple, she has a tumor with a diameter of about 15 mm with clear boundaries, changes in behavior, appetite, etc. No. After examination at the first clinic they said that most likely it was a cancer. tumor, talked about the further course of the disease and, of the options, suggested surgery; no tests were performed. In the second, they said that, most likely, he was a good student. tumor (due to clear boundaries and the cat’s normal state of health), they suggested surgery to remove the entire left mammary ridge, possible sterilization(based on blood test results) and tumor biopsy after surgery. Is it worth insisting on an x-ray before surgery to determine possible metastases (if it is a malignant tumor)? The first clinic said that they would not be visible in the picture now. In what cases is it no longer worth performing the operation, so as not to needlessly torture the animal? And can surgery provoke an increase in metastases?

  • Hello! Definitely do an x-ray, biochemistry and definitely general analysis blood (pay attention to platelets and leukocytes). Without an x-ray, it will not be clear how deep the tumor is (maybe it has gone deeper), maybe there are metastases, maybe there is still a site somewhere. Surgery is not performed if there are many metastases or the tumor is inoperable (sometimes this is discovered on the operating table, and then the animal is euthanized during the operation). The operation will provoke metastases only if the MALIGNANT tumor is removed incorrectly (if it was damaged during the operation, if pieces of tumor tissue were left, if the tumor is aggressive). Chemotherapy may be prescribed after surgery

    Thank you very much for answer. One more question, my cat has not been vaccinated, I heard that such animals Great chance catch an infection during an operation in the clinic (since sick animals are usually brought there). Is it so? And how can you minimize the risk?

In cats, mammary gland cancer occurs quite often and is malignant in nature, which is associated with all the difficulties in treating this disease. Of course, breast cancer in dogs is still twice as common, but cats are also not immune from this pathology. As a rule, everything ends fatal. The disease itself is very closely related to the removal of the cat's ovaries (sterilization). But in the early stages, breast cancer can be treated (surgically).

Which cats are most at risk?

Almost any adult cat Breast cancer and mastopathy may develop, but on average this most often occurs between the ages of 8 and 14 years. Siamese cats have genetic predisposition to mastopathy and the formation of tumors, so cancer is twice as common in them.

Mammary cancer often occurs in uncastrated and unsterilized cats, as well as in those. Which were sterilized after 4-5 heats, regardless of whether they gave birth.

Types of Mammary Cancer in Cats

Most often, the tumor manifests itself in the form of compaction nodules, which can easily move or be fused with surrounding tissues. 25% of all tumors have ulcers. Most often, the tumor appears on the first mammary glands. In 50% of cases, more than 1, 3 and 4 glands are affected. Often the ulcerations hurt, become infected and the temperature rises.

What is the best way to treat breast tumors?

The best way in the early stages is surgical removal tumors together with the surrounding tissues of the mammary glands. In the initial stages, such treatment is quite effective, but this is despite the fact that in 65% of cases a relapse occurs, that is, the tumor appears again. Sad statistics. That after detection of mammary gland tumors in cats, as a rule, within one year the animal dies from cancer (metastasis).

How to determine a malignant or benign tumor?

To do this, a puncture is made with a syringe, material is collected from the formation and sent for cytological examination. Also when removing a tumor surgically The material is sent for histology without fail. But still, most often mammary gland tumors in cats are malignant. Tissue samples are examined.

Disease prognosis

The prognosis depends on the size of the tumor:

• Up to 2 cm – favorable
• From 2 to 3 cm – doubtful
• More than 3 cm – unfavorable

Every owner should know that timely treatment, performed before the age of 2 years, reduces the incidence of mammary tumors in cats several times.

In cats, this is, unfortunately, a common phenomenon. This disease takes the lives of four-legged pets who are unable to resist the disease. Exist different techniques treatments, but none of them gives a 100% result.

Tumors

Diseases associated with neoplasms are a real disaster modern world. Thousands of people and animals die from them every year. Medicine in this area does not stand still, and in Lately Cancer treatment is becoming increasingly successful.

However, a medicine has not yet been obtained that would help absolutely everyone. In veterinary medicine, the situation is no better, especially when it comes to treating cats. The main means of stopping tumor growth is chemotherapy, but there is no guarantee that this goal will be achieved. A tumor of the mammary glands in cats will cause a lot of trouble for both the animal and the owner.

Mammary gland

The mammary glands in animals are designed to feed newborn kittens. They are located in pairs on the chest and stomach of the cat, their total number is normally eight. Their work begins before childbirth (swelling) and during false pregnancy(hormonal processes).

Diseases of the mammary glands are reported in adult cats, regardless of whether they have given birth or not. The most common ailments are: mastitis, cancer and mastopathy. In some cases, veterinarians remove the affected glands.

It is difficult for a non-professional to distinguish between them, especially in the early stages. With mastitis, inflammation of the mammary gland occurs. Occurs in cats with excess milk (early weaning of kittens) or false pregnancy. The gland increases in size, redness and increased temperature are observed. There may be discharge from the nipple different color and composition.

Mastopathy is swelling of the mammary glands, which can be normal or pathological. IN the latter case Gray fluid accumulates inside, and the skin turns blue.

In order not to confuse these diseases, look at what a mammary gland tumor looks like in a cat (there is a photo in the article).

Types of neoplasms

Over 85 cases of neoplasms out of 100 are malignant. In the latter, there is a noticeable tendency towards growth and the appearance of metastases in the shortest possible time. And it all starts, as a rule, with small seal, just like in humans.

What types of mammary tumors are there in cats? It can be malignant and benign. In the latter case, there is no cause for concern, because such neoplasms are characterized by slow growth, clear localization and lack of tendency towards necrotic processes.

Cancerous tumors often appear in several places at the same time. Interestingly, in a kitten up to 6 months of age, it reduces the likelihood of tumors appearing almost to zero and completely eliminates the malignant type. But the owners of animals kept for breeding will not be satisfied with this path. In addition, in the future the cat will need hormonal drugs, to avoid metabolic problems.

Stages of development of breast tumors

Each one goes through several stages of its growth:

1. The tumor is less than 10 mm in size, metastases are not detected.
2. The tumor reaches 30 mm, but there are no metastases.
3. The tumor is over 50 mm in diameter, ulcers may appear, and metastases are diagnosed in the lymph nodes.
4. Metastases are found in the lungs, liver and other organs and tissues.

Causes of neoplasms

What causes mammary tumors to appear in cats? Veterinarians and other specialists do not have a consensus on this matter. However, there is a large number of versions.

For example, life in big cities with high level pollution environment adversely affects the health of the animal. The same factors include monotony of diet, low quality food, and sometimes completely spoiled food. Predisposition to pathology at the genetic level cannot be ignored. By the way, this is why new owners are advised to take a closer look at the pet’s pedigree before purchasing it.

Symptoms of cancer

As a rule, the symptoms of a mammary tumor in cats are quite simple. These include:

• the appearance of small seals in the nipple area;
• inflammatory processes developing in this place over time;
• necrosis of tissue around the nipples.

Pets actively lick the affected area with their rough tongue, which only worsens the situation because it provokes the appearance of ulcers. At the same time, the mammary glands emit a nasty smell of rotting tissue. As a result, the animal feels worse every day: strength and weight are lost, and the existing chronic diseases move into the acute phase.

Diagnosis of the disease

You can find out whether a cat has a malignant or mammary gland using a biopsy. This should be done very carefully to avoid mechanical damage. In addition, during education serious breaks Metastases may appear - harbingers of the imminent death of the animal.

Timely diagnosis makes it possible to determine the onset of the disease and immediately begin chemotherapy to save pet. As a rule, a biopsy of lymph nodes located close to the site of the lesion is performed, because it is in them that metastases of neoplasms settle. Ultrasound and X-ray examination can determine their presence in the lungs and other abdominal organs.

A tumor of the mammary glands in cats requires blood tests: general and biochemical. They are necessary to determine the severity of the disease and the most suitable type chemotherapy for a specific pet.

Treatment

If a mammary tumor is detected in a cat, treatment should begin immediately. In most cases, surgery can save the pet, but its feasibility is questionable. An old animal that has lost a lot of strength may simply not survive this. In this case, you should limit yourself conservative treatment. Drugs appear regularly that cope better with neoplasms. This gives hope for a favorable outcome in the fight against the disease.

However, if possible, it is worth giving preference to surgical intervention, because it allows you to remove the entire affected area with metastases (the latter is not always the case). This method is indispensable when the peripheral ones are affected. If they are not cut out, the cancer will soon spread throughout the body.

Removal of a mammary gland tumor in a cat is carried out together with the entire organ, since only occasionally it is possible to localize its location (if the tumor is benign).

The situation becomes more complicated when a bilateral mastectomy is necessary, since it is extremely difficult for cats to tolerate. Chemotherapy sessions are not canceled in order to completely stop the development of the tumor. You must show your pet every day veterinarian to control the general condition of the body and prevent its rapid deterioration.

If treatment was decided to be carried out conservatively, then daily visits to the doctor become mandatory. The cat will be tested regularly (almost daily) to monitor exposure to toxic and hazardous substances, used in chemotherapy, on the body of a four-legged pet.

Under no circumstances should you self-medicate. Applying heat (such as heated salt) only makes the situation worse. As a result, the neoplasm begins to develop more intensively, and the malignant one will metastasize. Availability inflammatory processes and necrosis is also a contraindication for the use of heat compresses.

In the most difficult situations the animal is left in veterinary clinic under the supervision of specialists. The cat is given anesthetics and other important substances.

Post-operative care

One of important factors, which has a direct impact on the result of the treatment, is the organization of conditions for the sick animal. If an operation is detected, it will help get rid of it. But after surgical intervention The pet needs complete rest and feeding only what the veterinarian allows.

Ask him what drug to treat postoperative suture. Strictly follow your doctor's recommendations regarding the timing and dosage of taking medications. A special blanket is put on the cat, which will tighten and protect the seam. If a wound is opened, contact your veterinarian immediately.

The specialist will conduct examinations and take tests every week to monitor the condition of the animal’s body. This way he will be able to timely diagnose a relapse (if it happens). Even if a cat’s mammary tumor is removed, no one can say how long the animal will live.

Prevention

As already mentioned, before she reaches 6 months of age, it greatly reduces the likelihood of getting cancer. After cutting out the tumor, you cannot refuse to remove the ovaries. This will prevent relapse and prolong the life of your pet.

Always pay attention to any swelling that may be noticed when caring for your animal. Ignoring them can lead to very severe consequences. A festering and burst tumor should not be touched or picked at, as these actions contribute to the appearance of metastases. You cannot simply observe the tumor, hoping that “everything will heal on its own,” because during this time it will grow so much that surgical intervention will no longer be advisable. All that remains is to watch as the pet rots alive.

The sooner the disease is found, and the sooner the veterinarian performs the operation, the higher the chance of a complete cure.

For non-breeding pet owners, it is recommended that cats be spayed. But you need to decide on this as early as possible, then the risk of cancer will decrease almost to zero.

Introduction.

Mammary gland neoplasms in cats are one of the most common tumor problems. They occupy second place after skin tumors (according to some data, third place after lymphomas) and 77% of them are malignant.

The most common histological forms of mammary cancer in cats are:

Factors influencing the prognosis.

1. Tumor size.

2. Histological type and degree of cellular and nuclear atypia.

3. Castration.

4. Character of tumor growth.

Currently, breast cancer is considered to be a generalized process, since in most cases we are talking about the presence metastatic lesion in other organs and tissues. It is assumed that metastasis is a long-term process and is associated with angiogenesis in the tumor. Previously it was believed that angiogenesis begins after the amount tumor cells will exceed 10 3 (about 1000 cells), and the diameter will be 0.5 mm. However, it was recently shown that the process of formation of blood vessels in a tumor can begin even earlier - when the number of cells is 100 - 200. From this moment, cancer cells can already enter the bloodstream.

It is also necessary to take into account the degree of malignancy tumor process. The fact is that for cats it is advisable to determine only the presence/absence of malignancy of the neoplasm, because in case of malignancy, the tumor always behaves aggressively.

Another factor influencing prognosis is determining the doubling time of the primary tumor.

Retreat. Time period from the hypothetical "first" cancer cell until death upon reaching a “critical” mass is called “natural history.” Its duration depends on the rate of tumor growth and metastases, as well as on the time of onset of metastasis.

In this regard, the concepts of “actual” and “potential” growth rates are distinguished. The potential rate is determined conditionally, it is assumed that the proliferative pool is 100% of cells and there are no “cellular losses”.

Studying the actual growth rate is extremely difficult, because involves counting from a cluster of several cells, the identification of which is almost impossible. It is often impossible to find out from the owners exact time detection of the smallest node.

Based on the available data on the actual growth rate, we can distinguish:

1. Rapidly growing tumors with a doubling time of less than 30 days (25% of cases).

2. Tumors with a moderate growth rate and doubling time of 90 – 100 days (65%).

3. Slow-growing tumors with a doubling time of more than 110 days (10%).

Castration:

• Before the first heat – 0.05%.
• After the first heat – 8%.
• After the second heat – 26%.

After the fourth estrus, there is a lack of preventive effect on the incidence of breast cancer.

Based on the form of tumor growth, it is customary to distinguish between nodular and diffuse forms of cancer. Among the diffuse forms there are:

· Edematous-infiltrative form – characterized by enlargement and thickening of the mammary gland, its skin is thickened and swollen. In this case, individual tumor nodes are not identified. The swelling is caused by compression of the lymphatic tract of the gland itself by the tumor infiltrate.

· Armored form – characterized by tumor infiltration of both the gland itself and the skin. The latter becomes dense, pigmented, and does not move well. Numerous intradermal tumor nodules may appear. Subsequently, the mammary gland shrinks and shrinks - as if covered with a shell of compacted infiltrated skin. From diffuse forms The armored form of cancer is the most aggressive.

· Inflammatory (mastitis-like) – the mammary gland is significantly enlarged, tense, compacted, hyperemic, and there is a local increase in temperature. In the depths of the glandular tissue can be felt diffuse seals. The process spreads quickly and may be accompanied by an increase in temperature.

The purpose of the study was a retrospective analysis of neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy with doxorubicin in cats with mammary cancer.

The most commonly used chemotherapy regimens for mammary cancer in cats are: the following drugs and their combinations: doxorubicin, taxotere, cyclophosphamide, dexamethasone, prednisolone.

Retreat. Today, there are a large number of chemotherapy regimens for breast cancer. The main ones are the following: CMF (cyclophosphamide, fluorouracil, methotrexate), AC (doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide), TAS (docetaxel, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide) or doxorubicin (25 mg/m2) and docetaxel (25 mg/m2) in mono regimens.

Materials and methods. The analysis included 17 case histories of cats with histologically confirmed mammary cancer that received neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy. The most common cancer types were tubular papillary carcinoma, solid carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

The diagnosis was made according to the standard scheme: medical history, examination and palpation of the mammary glands and regional lymph nodes, puncture biopsy, radiograph of the chest lungs in two projections (since it is possible to clinical level talk about the absence or presence of metastases), Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity, incisional biopsy and histological examination of the material.

As the drugs of choice during neoadjuvant chemotherapy, we used doxorubicin at a dose of 25 mg/m2 in courses with an interval of 21 days, 2 courses, prednisolone at a dose of 40 mg/m2 or dexamethasone at a dose of 5 mg/m2 continuously throughout the course of chemotherapy . This choice of drugs is explained by the availability in city pharmacies and the cost of drugs.

This group was divided into two subgroups: 1st received prednisolone in specified dosage and the 2nd received dexamethasone at the indicated dosage. During adjuvant chemotherapy, the same drugs and doses were used. Number of chemotherapy courses: 3.

The control group consisted of 11 case histories of cats with mammary cancer and who did not receive any treatment.

Results and discussions. Average duration The lifespan of cats in the 1st experimental group was 9.35 months, in the 2nd experimental group 11.35 months, in the control group 3.13 months. Distant metastases in the experimental group were detected in the 1st experimental group, in the middle group they were detected after 7.85 months, in the 2nd experimental group after 8.21 months, in the control group after 2.27 months.

The condition of all cats receiving chemotherapy remained satisfactory throughout the course. In the 2nd experimental group, 7 cats (85.7%) had wellness, high activity and pronounced appetite.

Conclusions. Conducting courses of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and adjuvant chemotherapy has a beneficial effect on the life expectancy and duration of the metastasis-free period in animals. The use of dexamethasone as part of chemotherapy is preferable to prednisolone, because Appetite does not decrease and health remains consistently good.

Today in our section on cat diseases we will talk about tumors, methods of diagnosing them, as well as their treatment. What to do if you find mammary tumor in a cat? Does this mean cancer, or can and should you still fight for the life and health of your pet? Read about all this in our publication...

What is a mammary tumor in a cat?

First of all, let's clear things up with you. what is a tumor ?

A tumor of the mammary gland (abbreviated as AMG) is considered to be an increase beyond the permissible limits, which is characterized by compaction and pathological growth of tissue of the mammary glands of the animal. It is quite obvious that most often cats are susceptible to tumors of the mammary glands, however, there are cases when cats (this is about 1% of all cases) have lumps in the area of ​​the mammary glands. Most veterinarians believe that tumors are an age-related phenomenon that a cat can encounter at 10-12 years of its life, however, there are cases when such neoplasms are diagnosed in younger individuals. Read more about age-related changes in a cat’s body and about the old age of our pets, read here.

Types of tumors in cats

It is necessary to distinguish neoplasms by their types:

• benign - this category includes adenomas, cysts, and other tumors that do not pose any threat to the life and health of the pet. They simply exist and need to be observed.
• malignant - those tumors that metastasize and grow into neighboring organs and tissues; they are deadly.

However , even a benign tumor can cause discomfort to your animal if it large sizes, or is in an inconvenient place. In addition, such benign tumors can develop into malignant ones over time, therefore, veterinary medicine still recommends not only limiting themselves to observation, but also removing such tumors before they develop into more dangerous ones.

As for malignant tumors, they clearly pose a threat to the life and health of your pet, therefore, hesitate in this case– removing the tumor or leaving it is not worth it. Removing such a tumor is your cat's chance at life.

What a tumor might look like in a cat

What do tumors look like and how can they be diagnosed? These questions, of course, concern concerned cat owners who are afraid of missing the appearance of such a neoplasm in their pet’s body.

So, a tumor does not always correspond to our understanding of this word - it is not always huge and shapeless, but sometimes it can look like a small, slightly convex seal, similar to a nodule or lump, which in our case can be located on the mammary glands of a cat.

If you discover such a tumor in your cat, do not put off your visit to the veterinarian and do not count on the fact that such a tumor will resolve on its own. In case you are dealing with malignant tumor, your delay can give metastases to the tissues adjacent to the cat’s mammary glands.

How is neoplasm diagnosed in a cat?

Today a tumor can be diagnosed both using the “old-fashioned” method - palpation and palpation, and using ultrasound examination and x-ray. However, with the help of these studies it is not possible to determine whether the tumor is benign or malignant. Therefore, it is imperative to conduct both a cytological examination and a tumor biopsy in order to determine what treatment will be appropriate in this case. It wouldn't hurt to take the required tests either.

Cat behavior during illness - stages of the disease

Tumors of the mammary glands of cats do not appear out of nowhere; as a rule, the appearance of a neoplasm already at the stage when the cat’s owners notice it is preceded by several stages - stages of the disease.

So, at the first stage disease, the cat’s lymph nodes are not enlarged, but in the area of ​​the mammary gland there is a slight thickening of a soft consistency. The cat, as a rule, reacts very calmly when you touch such a tumor - it simply does not feel it yet.

At the second stage As the tumor develops, its consistency thickens, however, if the tumor is malignant, metastases have not yet grown.

At the third stage During the development of the tumor, the lymph nodes are also involved in the process of tumor growth - they become larger and begin to increase in size, and the tumor continues to grow. The cat is very painful and responds to your attempts to touch the sore spot.

At the fourth stage tumor development, the size of the tumor is several times larger than the initial neoplasm, the general condition of the cat’s body is characterized as severe exhaustion, and, unfortunately, no one can help your animal, not even surgery at this stage will no longer be able to guarantee positive dynamics. You may be offered a course of painkillers or an animal.

According to veterinary statistics, 9 out of 10 cases of mammary gland tumors in cats are malignant in nature and are carcinomas (tumors that grow into nearby tissues)...

Video about tumors in cats

Treatment of a mammary tumor in a cat

As for prescribing a course of treatment, there is only one correct path - surgery and removal of the tumor in its early stages of development.

After all, while the tumor is on first three stages - you can still treat it, and hope for your cat’s recovery, but when time is lost, there is no hope left...

Prevention of mammary tumors in cats

Well, it can serve as a preventive measure for the formation of mammary gland tumors in cats. proper care for the animal (read about it here), a balanced diet that contains all the vitamins and minerals necessary for the cat, and also... your love. After all, those cats that you love get sick less often...

Today we talked about mammary tumors in cats, the types of such tumors, their symptoms, diagnostic methods, the development of such a disease, its treatment and prevention. There is only one thing I can add to all this - proper cat care and your love - here best prevention tumor formation...

Have you ever encountered tumors in cats? Do you think it is necessary to fight for the life of a sick cat, or is it better to simply euthanize it? Share with us your thoughts on this matter. We look forward to your comments and invite you to join the discussion of this publication in our VKontakte group.

Shevtsova Olga

A lack of vitamins can also cause serious problems in the animal’s body. You can deal with this problem and find out about it on our website.

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40 comments to “Breast tumor in a cat”

Comments: 8

The article is very interesting, but at the same time scary, not pleasant, but cat owners, in my opinion, should have information of this kind. The most important thing for any disease is not to let it go and fight for your pet.

Comments: 0

I discovered a lump in my cat, I thought it was a wen, but it grew over time, I want to do a biopsy, I think it’s a tumor, they are very worried about their cat, she is already 10 years old

Comments: 0

I have a 12 year old Cornish Rex cat. At the moment, breast cancer is in the last stage. We live one day at a time. Tumors are opened every day one by one. It's September now. The first time I went to the doctor was in February, the tumors were small, they told me not to touch anything, the cat was old, let it be as it will. In June, doctors already hinted. But we still live and fight.

• • Comments: 4277

    Sorry, Irina. Perhaps this will be inappropriate, but why torture an animal with 4 stages of AMF, deliberately prolong its suffering and try to somehow relieve the pain of this entire irreversible process? It is clear that love, affection, but sometimes love for a pet means letting it go, now I am writing about euthanasia. If there is no hope, the prognosis is bleak and time is ticking for weeks, then what do you gain by prolonging the animal’s suffering? There is a certain amount of selfishness in this - a reluctance to let go. Yes, and at this stage, as practice shows, most painkillers simply no longer work (even the same tramal) (((The animal is left alone with the pain... By the way, was there an operation? Are there metastases? What is the situation with the lungs? The fluid is already pumping out?

Comments: 0

Hello, Olga. Tell me, maybe you are using some of their folk remedies. My cat has the same problem. She is almost 12 years old, the swelling was in the lower part, and now her nipples are swollen all over the row. What to do? Some doctors took on the operation in January, but did not give any guarantees, while others even said that they would not operate in this place. Best regards, Larisa

• Comments: 4277

  Hello, Larisa. As far as I understand, the cat is not sterilized? How long ago was the tumor discovered? Treat hormonal agents haven't you tried it? What exactly is the diagnosis made by veterinarians? Folk remedies effective on initial stage and in combination with hormonal therapy, such as independent method I would not choose them for my pet. In this case, no one will guarantee a 100% result either (Apparently, your disease is already progressing quite quickly, therefore, you should not delay treatment - you may lose your cat. Doctors are not gods, but they can try to save your cat, If you contact us in a timely manner, refusing surgery is not an option, the disease will progress, the animal will experience terrible pain and suffer.

Comments: 2

Hello. Our cat is 8 years old. A year ago, for about a while, they gave a kitten that tried to suck the nipple, the cat allowed it. After a while, a thickening appeared, which then went away. But after a while a lump began to appear on this nipple. The cat was not sterilized. A month ago I was sterilized; regarding the tumor, the doctor said that I needed to observe it. Rub and massage with camphor oil. If seals appear on other glands, then it will be necessary to operate. The size of the tumor is about 3 cm in diameter, smooth, clearly defined.

• Comments: 4277

  Your cat, unfortunately, has all the prerequisites for the formation of a mammary tumor (Follow the veterinarian’s recommendations and monitor the cat, there is a chance that the matter will be resolved without surgery. But if the tumor grows and spreads further, surgery cannot be avoided((( This is why cats should be sterilized not for breeding - sterilization reduces the risk of tumors.

  • Comments: 2

    Now I looked through the Internet, they write that such tumors in 99.9% of cases are cancer. And we need to operate, remove the entire ridge and the lymph node. But you can’t massage and warm it up. Now I’m definitely very tense. Should I see another doctor?
    And further. After sterilization and Vitarel vaccination, a bald spot appeared on the withers. 2 weeks after this a small ulcer appeared. It doesn’t bother the cat, it doesn’t itch, it doesn’t hurt. The doctor says that this may be an individual reaction to the drug. But I don’t understand anything anymore...

    • Comments: 4277

      To be honest, I’m also skeptical about massaging and warming up. Operation - more effective option, but given the age of your cat, it is difficult to say how she will tolerate anesthesia (Try to consult with another veterinarian. One opinion is good, but two are calmer for you. Regarding bald spots and sores - have you had your fur analyzed? - this could be skin infection, and it needs to be treated. It's easiest to blame everything on individual reaction body. But ideally it shouldn't exist. What is your cat's appetite? Do you give her vitamins? Be sure to have your fur analyzed. Write how you are doing...

      • Comments: 0

        They haven’t tested me yet, they shined a UV lamp on me, and they said that I definitely don’t have lichen. The cat doesn’t walk outside; before the surgery and the vaccine, there was nothing like that. The bald spot is not growing, but the ulcer looks like an injection site, slightly inflamed. The peroxide bubbles a little on the sore. Her fur is really coming out, but I chalk it up to shedding and scratch it.
        The appetite is generally good. But now it’s hot, he eats little. They tried to switch it to a dry plan for sterilized cats, but my husband insists on natural and buys pink salmon and chicken liver. As for vitamins, I now give them omega neo for cats.
        One of these days we will go to another doctor for a consultation. Thanks, I'll write back later.

Comments: 0

Good afternoon And we have such a story. The cat was sterilized late, at the age of 11, and at the same time the ovaries, uterus and several breast tumors that had appeared by that time were removed. The operation went well. Then a new lump appeared, the doctor said to watch it. Why didn't you appoint hormonal treatment, did not take a biopsy, it is unclear. 4 years later (the cat is 15 years old) after the first operation, this lump was revealed and the doctor removed it (again successfully). After another 2 years (the cat is 17 years old), another lump opened up, and with blood. The CBC showed inflammation, so the cat was prescribed a course of antibiotics and an immunomodulator for 10 days, after which, without checking the CBC after treatment, only taking an X-ray of the lungs, without doing an ultrasound of the abdominal cavity, the exposed lump was removed. This time, the suture took longer to heal than usual - after removing the sutures, some growths on the skin along the suture line - similar to papillomas - did not fall off for a long time, the hair did not grow back well on the belly shaved before the operation, the cat began to refuse dry food and almost completely switched to food from the table, lost a lot of weight, in addition, she stopped leaving the kitchen, sat under the table alone all summer. The doctor said that 2-3 months after the operation, an ultrasound of the abdominal cavity can be done. Suddenly, 2.5 months after the operation, the cat began to fall on its side with severe cramps of the limbs, every few days, while continuing to eat and drink and walk; the gait was indeed unsteady, but we attributed this to age. The cat began to breathe heavily. We took her to the vet five days after the first attack - he did an ultrasound, x-ray, felt her stomach and said that this was the end, that her abdominal cavity was swollen, that there were metastases and free fluid in the lungs and peritoneum. He suggested injecting Teranecrone (0.5 ml subcutaneously every 2 days) and dexamethasone (0.3 IM 2 times a day) to make her feel better. We managed to administer only 1 injection of teranecrone and 3 injections of dexamethasone - a day and a half after the start of treatment, the cat died suddenly. On the day of her death, she willingly ate meat, moved, purred, and basked in the sun. In the afternoon she became sharply weak, her eyes became clouded, she lay down and in the evening did not eat or drink, and lay flat on the floor, lying on her side. She was gone that night. In this regard, I have the following question: why was our cat not prescribed treatment when there were no metastases yet, why did they say just observe? From the very beginning, that is, when she was 11 years old, six years ago, why were we told that it was oncology, she would not survive chemotherapy because of her age, so nothing could be done except to remove the tumors when they began to bother her? Why did they take her for the last operation without checking her blood again or doing an ultrasound of her abdomen? Why were the injections prescribed to her before her death even necessary and what effect did they have? side effects Did they kill a cat, since she began to gradually die after just 1 injection? I don't know if there is a veterinarian here to answer my questions. Thank you.

• Comments: 4277

  You should ask these questions to your veterinarian who treated your cat, only he can explain what prompted him to treat the animal so incorrectly. Siphoning money? Perhaps... I don’t presume to judge anyone, but this also often happens. That is why in such serious situations it is always worth consulting not just one specialist, but several. In addition, you can say that you yourself want to get tested and have an ultrasound done - no one will refuse you. Nowadays, saving drowning people is really the work of the drowning people themselves, and no one except the owners can help their pets (((((Hold on, the cat lived by a cat’s standards good life, it could have been longer, but... Often before death there is a temporary improvement, and then that’s it, it’s over (((Don’t blame anyone now - it won’t help, everyone will answer for their actions. Just for the future, look for a good vet who you can trust with the life of your dear pet. Good luck to you.

  Comments: 1

  ANNA, GOOD EVENING! IN A LONG AND FUTURE SEARCH FOR ANY HELP OR ADVICE, I ACCIDENTALLY READ YOUR COMMENT ABOUT YOUR CAT. MY KISULA IS 10 YEARS OLD AND ALSO OMB. I TEARLY ASK YOU, WRITE TO ME, MAYBE YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO SUPPORT (TREAT) YOUR PUSSY AFTER THE OPERATIONS??? WE HAVEN'T PERFORMED THE OPERATION YET, I'M AFRAID THAT IT WILL MAKE IT WORSE. AND THE DOCTORS... MANY DOCTORS HAVE SO MANY OPINIONS. I MYSELF ARE AFRAID THAT IT’S ALREADY LATE, BUT YOUR LETTER GIVES ME HOPE, BECAUSE SHE LIVED WITH YOU FOR ANOTHER 6 LONG YEARS!!! MY TEL. 89003715753 JUST IN ANY CASE. I BEG YOU, PLEASE HELP ME, AT LEAST WITH JUST ADVICE. IT'S VERY HARD TO LIVE WITH THIS, I CRY ALL THE TIME FROM POWERLESS AND HOPELESS.

Comments: 0

Good afternoon I'm asking for advice. Almost all articles and all forums talk about inflammation of the mammary glands or the appearance of tumors in unsterilized cats. Our situation is a little different. The cat is sterilized. Now 8.5 years old. A lump appeared (2*1 cm in diameter) with clear boundaries near the mammary gland. It doesn’t hurt the cat, it allows you to touch it, there are no changes in character or nutrition. What could it be? Is there a chance of cancer developing in a sterilized cat? A huge nuance: apart from sterilization, necessary procedures we only do it at home, but now the trusted doctor has left... In veterinary clinics, the cat panics VERY, becomes aggressive, there was a case when 5 people could not hold and put on a muzzle just to examine it. That's why I'm very worried. My girl is already old, and here are these tumors...

• Comments: 4277

  At what age was the cat sterilized? Perhaps it's just a cyst associated with hormonal imbalance in the body due to the age of the cat. In any case, you need to go to the veterinary clinic, do an ultrasound, get tested, no matter how the cat resists it. I understand that it is stressful for the animal, but anything can happen. And the sooner you start the examination, the more positive the forecasts will be. So, don’t delay your visit to the vet. Sterilization before 2.5 years of age significantly reduces the incidence of mammary tumors, but, alas, does not completely protect against this. So, run to the clinic. Good prognosis for your cat.

Comments: 2

good evening. I have just discovered 4 male lumps on my CAT. The cat is neutered, he is 10 years old. He eats normally, everything is as usual. Moreover, I stroke his tummy almost every day, he loves him very much. And I didn’t find them yesterday or the day before yesterday... They don’t twitch if you touch the seals. They’re about the size of a pea, not very hard. Thanks in advance for your answer. Of course, I’ll take it to the clinic tomorrow, but the whole night is ahead...

• • Comments: 2

    good morning. cat chow food for sterilized ones, he eats only this for the rest of his life. yes, we’ll go to the clinic in an hour. thanks for the answer.