As pet parents, it’s heart-wrenching to acknowledge that cancer can affect our beloved fur babies just as it does us. This month, we shine a light on the importance of pet cancer awareness and early detection.
Understanding the signs, like lumps, persistent wounds, and changes in appetite or activity, can make all the difference in your pet’s health journey, especially as they grow older.
At Happy Paws, we are committed to providing quality, thorough consultations that give you and your pet the time, care, and attention needed to identify any concerns. Together, let’s ensure our furry companions have the best possible chance for treatment and a healthy, happy life.
Pet Cancer Awareness Early Detection Tips
We share our top tips to support owners in early detection.
Monitor Physical Changes
Lumps or Bumps: Regularly check your pet for any unusual lumps or growths. Pay attention to any changes in size, shape, or colour.
Wounds That Don’t Heal: Keep an eye on any persistent wounds or sores that don’t seem to improve over time. These could indicate underlying health issues.
Watch for Behavioural Shifts
An important sign to watch for in your pet is lethargy or a noticeable decrease in activity levels.
If you find that your furry friend seems more tired than usual, it could be a signal that something is amiss.
Changes in Appetite, Thirst, and Weight
A drop in appetite can be an indicator of underlying health problems, including dental issues, gastrointestinal distress, or even more serious conditions like cancer.
Increased thirst often accompanies changes in appetite and should not be overlooked.
If your pet is shedding pounds without any dietary changes, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian.
Changes in Bathroom Habits
Any unusual changes in urination or bowel movements, such as straining, blood in urine or stools or abnormal smells, can warrant immediate attention.
Sometimes our pets can have upset tummies (see Tell-Tail Signs Your Dog Has an Upset Stomach) but should unusual toileting persist, a call to your Vet is essential.
Be vigilant with regular vet checks
Regular veterinary visits are essential for ensuring your pet’s health and well-being. These check-ups provide your veterinarian with the opportunity to identify any underlying health issues before they escalate.
This is especially crucial for cats, as they are notorious for concealing signs of illness or injury. Cats often hide their discomfort until a condition has progressed, making it vital to maintain a routine schedule of veterinary care.
Like humans, cancer is prevalent in our cats and dogs and early detection greatly increases the chances of successful treatment and improved outcomes.
Book A Check Up For Your Furry Friend
At Happy Paws, we deeply care about your pet’s health and well-being. Our dedicated team is committed to providing quality, thorough, and compassionate consultations tailored to your pet’s unique needs.
If your furry friend is due for a health check, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly team. Appointments can be made online or call the clinic on (07) 5577 5084
