Symptoms of dogs with cancer vary based on the affected area. in general, the usual symptoms include swelling of the affected area, loss of appetite, body pains, irritation, lethargy, sudden weight loss, irregular bowel movement, and fatigue.
Like in humans, the risk of cancer knows no particular stage of life. however, older dogs tend to have a higher risk than their younger peers do.
As of today, cancer in dogs is considered as one of the leading causes of dog’s death. This means that for every 4 dogs, 1 will die of cancer each year. The causes of cancer are still unknown but early diagnosis and treatment of the affected dog increases the chance of their survival.
Symptoms of Cancer in Dogs
The physical examination remains to be one of the most suitable ways to detect cancer. however, cancer affecting internally that doesn’t exhibit lumps or external swelling such as the case of liver cancer is much harder to detect because they do not manifest early warnings. As soon as the cancer is detected, it is usually too late.
Below are Some of the most Common Types of Cancer and their Symptoms Affecting Dogs
Bone cancer symptoms in dogs. Bone cancer, also known as osteosarcoma, accounts to nearly 5% of cancer in dogs. It usually develops in the regions of the skull, legs, arms, creams, jaw, and spine. during the early stage of cancer, the affected area swells associated with no significant pain. however, as the bone cancer progresses, it brings severe pain to the dog giving rise to pertinent behavior changes. For instance, if your dog has limb bone cancer, he may become crippled.
Liver cancer symptoms in dogs. This cancer is categorized into two types: fundamental (tumor found in the liver) and metastatic (the cancer spreads towards other organs). unlike bone cancer, liver cancer in dogs is usually detected at an advanced stage. Some of the symptoms include bloody stools, jaundice, anemia, vomiting, lethargy, frequent urination, weight loss, loss of appetite, and augmented thirst.
Lung cancer symptoms in dogs. This type of cancer is believed to be the result of the frequent exposure of the dog to some environmental pollutants or second-hand smoking. It’s also possible to develop cancer due to other affected areas (metastatic). Common symptoms include harsh or chronic cough, slight discoloration or blood during coughing, weight loss, difficulty in breathing, fatigue, and anemia.
Stomach cancer symptoms in dogs. The type of cancer having the least number of casualties accounting to about 1% in all dog cancer cases. Stomach cancer usually affects male dogs, aged between eight and nine years old. The symptoms of stomach cancer in dogs include loss of appetite, sudden weight loss, less activeness, body pain, vomiting, rapid breathing, scratching, and unexplained weakness.
Prostate cancer symptoms in dogs. Usually affects those un-castrated older dogs. Common symptoms include swelling of the prostate gland, pain during urination, abdominal swelling, frequent urination, fatigue, and unexplained secretions from the genital area.
These are the most common signs and symptoms of various types of dog cancer. If your dog is showing one or more of the mentioned signs, bring the dog to your veterinarian for thorough examination.
If tumor is found, your doctor may advise you for the surgical removal of the said tumor. keen observations with regard to physiological and metabolic changes shall be implemented to formulate the right treatment procedure.
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