Cancer Sites

Skin

Skin cancer may appear as a growth, tumor, lump, warts or non-healing sores.  Light colored pets are especially susceptible to skin cancer when exposed to excessive sunlight, either during the daylight hours or from spending time in the window.

Nose/Mouth

Persistent bloody discharge from one or both nostrils is a common sign.  Lumps, swelling in the mouth growths on the lips or nose, difficulty swallowing or chewing may also be signs of cancer.

Reproductive Cancer

Mammary gland tumors frequently occur in older females on or near the nipple.  Spaying after the pet is 6 months old reduces the risk of mammary tumors.  Testicular and/or prostate cancer is most common in un-castrated males and in pets with un-descended testicles.  When the pet is 6 to 8 months old, castration will help reduce the risk of these types of cancer.