Spotting Cancer in Dogs: The Warning Signs
If you have a dog, it is important that you understand the signs that it may have cancer. Yes, cancer doesn't just affect people; it can affect animals too! Canine cancer occurs when a cell in a dog's body malfunctions and begins to replicate itself in an uncontrolled way. These abnormal cells clump together to form a tumour. Because the cancerous cells carry the animal's DNA, the immune system does not recognise them as a threat. If cancer is not treated early, it almost always results in death. Below is a guide to the signs and symptoms of canine cancer.
Abnormal bowel movements
While every dog can have an upset stomach now and again or can suffer a bout of constipation, you should pay careful attention to any abnormal bowel movements which do not clear up after a couple of days and get your dog to the vet for a checkup. If your dog cannot go to the toilet or if they are passing very loose stools, this is a cause for concern. You should also keep your eye open for any sign of blood in their excrement, as this could also be a sign of cancer of the bowel.
Oral Problems
As part of your dog's dental care, you should carry out periodic checks on their teeth and gums so you can see if they need cleaning. When you are performing these checks, you should also pay attention to warning signs of oral cancer. The warning signs of oral cancer include:
- Bad breath
- Ulcers and open sores
- Lumps on the tongue or gums
- Loose teeth
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should take your pet along to an animal hospital. A vet will be able to carry out a full assessment of your dog's mouth. This will typically start with a visual check which may be followed by x-rays or MRI scanning in order to investigate any abnormal growth of tissue within the oral cavity.
Weight Loss
If your dog loses weight for no apparent reason, this could be a sign that they have cancer of the bowel or the stomach. If a tumour forms in the bowel or the stomach, it can affect your dog's appetite and may reduce the amount of nutrition which your dog's body can absorb from their food. If you notice your dog is underweight, you should not wait around. Book them an appointment at a vet clinic or animal hospital so they can be assessed by a professional.