Cancer is a scary word, and when we learn that our beloved cat has developed feline cancer,1 our thoughts may naturally think of the worst outcome. Like humans, cats are not exempt from developing some sort of disease, and when it happens, it’s devastating.
No cat owner wants their kitty to go through such sickness, which begs the question: is cancer prevention for cats possible? Sadly, not all cancers can be prevented, as genetic components can be a factor.2
To better understand this answer, let us dive deeper into feline cancer and discuss tips for possibly preventing cancer in cats.
What Causes Cancer in Cats?
Some cats are more prone to developing cancer due to genetic or environmental factors.3 Genetic factors mean a cat is already predisposed to cancer from genes.4
Environmental factors include nutrition, lack of exercise, secondhand smoke, ultraviolet radiation from extensive exposure to the sun, exposure to pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides, and air pollutants. It’s vital to keep your cat away from these possible factors in an effort to keep your cat safe.
What Are the More Common Cancers in Cats?
Let us now break down the more common types of cancer found in cats.
Signs of Cancer in Cats
Knowing the signs of cancer can be beneficial in determining when a trip to the vet is necessary.
Does Pet Insurance cover Cancer Treatments?
Cancer treatment is expensive; luckily, most pet insurance companies will cover these types of treatments as long as the cancer is not considered a pre-existing condition or you didn’t purchase an accident-only policy. A tip regarding pet insurance is the earlier you purchase a policy in your pet’s life, the more affordable a policy is.
Tips for Keeping Your Cat Safe
As we’ve mentioned, feline cancer may not always be preventable, as genetic and environmental factors play a significant role. That said, here are some tips for keeping your kitty as healthy as possible in an effort to keep disease and health issues at bay:
Final Thoughts
A cancer diagnosis for your cat is a scary situation. Sadly, some cancers are not preventable due to genetic components. However, environmental factors can be reduced by not smoking around your cat, avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun, avoiding exposure to pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides, and exercising your cat as much as possible. Keep vaccinations up to date, and ensure you take your cat for regular checkups.
See Also:
- What and When Is Pet Cancer Awareness Month?
- Ear Cancer in Cats: Causes, Signs & Treatments (Vet Answer)
Featured Image Credit: estoymhrb, Pexels
