Lung tumours in cats: what you need to know about diagnosis, signs and treatment

Lung cancer is a serious disease that can affect our four-legged friends too. Although it is relatively rare, understanding the condition, its signs and the treatment options available is essential if you want to look after your cat’s health. 

Lung tumours in cats take a number of forms, and they are classified according to the type of cell they arise from. There are two main types: primary tumours, which develop in the lung tissue itself, and secondary tumours, which have spread from elsewhere in the body. The commonest primary tumours are squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and bronchiolar carcinoma. Where the tumour sits varies, and this affects the signs a cat shows. Tumours may lie in the central part of the lungs, near the bronchi, which leads to difficulty breathing and coughing. They may also sit at the periphery of the lungs, which produces different signs such as listlessness or loss of appetite. Wherever they are, lung tumours are a serious threat to health, which is why early detection and diagnosis are so important for effective treatment and a better quality of life for the cat.

Causes of lung tumours

Lung tumours in cats can have a range of causes, both genetic and environmental. 

Among the risk factors most often mentioned is exposure to carcinogens such as tobacco smoke, particularly in cats living in homes where people smoke. Other sources of pollution, such as the chemicals in cleaning products, paints and pesticides, can also increase the risk of tumours developing. Cats exposed to pollen, mould and other airborne irritants may likewise be more prone to lung disease. 

Age matters too: middle-aged and older cats and dogs are more likely to develop most tumours, lung cancer among them. As animals age, the body’s defence mechanisms weaken, which is why tumours become increasingly common in older pets. 

It is also worth noting that some lung tumours arise as secondary growths from cancers elsewhere in the body, which shows how important it is to keep an eye on a cat’s overall health. Genetics plays a part as well, since certain breeds are more predisposed to cancer. Understanding these causes is key to prevention and early detection.

Signs of a lung tumour

Lung cancer in cats can show itself in a variety of ways, depending largely on where the tumour is, how big it is, how fast it is growing and what type it is. Tumours often remain silent for a long time, and the first signs of illness appear only once they begin to press on the airways or block the bronchi. At that point you may see a persistent dry cough, difficulty breathing and breathlessness in cats. In some cases the cat may breathe rapidly or bring up blood.

Alongside these respiratory signs, lung cancer in cats and dogs often causes more general ones. Owners may notice weakness and apathy, as well as weight loss, lethargy and reduced tolerance of exercise. Vomiting and a raised temperature can accompany the disease too, another reason to seek veterinary advice quickly. Understanding these signs is essential for the early diagnosis and effective treatment of lung tumours in our pets.

Diagnosing lung cancer in cats

Diagnosing a lung tumour in a cat usually begins with a detailed history, in which the vet gathers information about the signs, the animal’s medical background and its way of life. A physical examination follows, in which the vet assesses the cat’s general health and listens to the volume and character of the sounds coming from the chest. Chest X-rays are a key diagnostic tool, allowing the state of the lungs to be assessed and any tumours identified. In some cases the vet may request an ultrasound scan or a CT scan for a clearer picture of the changes within the lungs. A biopsy or fine-needle aspiration may also be needed to confirm the presence of cancer cells and establish the type of tumour.

At the Zviropolis veterinary clinic we have an oncology specialist experienced in diagnosing and treating tumours in  our four-legged patients. If you notice anything that worries you, contact a veterinarian without delay. The sooner a tumour is diagnosed, the better the chances of treating it successfully

Treating lung tumours 

Treatment of a lung tumour in a cat depends on many factors, including the type of tumour, where it is and the animal’s general health. For a primary tumour that has not spread, surgery to remove the growth may be the most effective approach. Lung tumours are often detected at a later stage, however, which makes other treatments such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy more suitable. Chemotherapy acts on the cancer cells, holding back their growth and development, while radiotherapy helps to shrink the tumour and ease the signs. In advanced disease, where the cat’s general condition has deteriorated considerably, palliative care may be recommended to improve the patient’s quality of life. The decision on the best approach should be made by the veterinarian together with the owner, taking the cat’s needs and comfort into account.

Summary

Lung tumours in cats are a complex subject that calls for attention and an accurate diagnosis. The situation may be worrying, but it is worth remembering that catching the disease early and having access to specialist veterinary care offers a real chance of effective treatment and a better quality of life for our pets. The key is to stay alert to any change in your cat’s behaviour or health and to consult your vet regularly. Working with an experienced veterinarian who knows about cancer will help you understand the treatments being used and ensure the best possible care for your pet. Let us remember that our animals’ health is not only about their wellbeing, but also a source of pleasure for us, the people who look after them.