Feline lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects a cat's immune system, and it's more common in older cats.
Genetic predisposition plays a significant role in the development of feline lymphoma, with certain breeds being more susceptible to the disease.
Cats exposed to certain chemicals, such as pesticides and heavy metals, may also be at a higher risk of developing lymphoma.
In addition, cats with a weakened immune system, such as those with feline leukemia virus (FeLV) or feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), are more prone to lymphoma.
Expand your knowledge: Feline Ibd vs Lymphoma
What Is Feline Lymphoma?
Feline lymphoma is cancer of the lymphatic system, an abnormal and malignant growth of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that plays a big part in your cat's immune system.
Lymphoma can affect the entire lymphatic system or just portions of it, and in cats, it often starts in atypical locations, such as the nasal passages, spinal cord, kidneys, or eyes.
Cats of any breed and any age can get lymphoma, but it's most common in cats who are 10-12 years old.
In young cats, lymphoma usually originates in the chest cavity, whereas senior cats often develop the condition in their intestinal tract.
The lymphatic system is a network that carries lymph fluids throughout your cat's body, delivering oxygen and nutrients to other cells, absorbing fat, and removing the bad stuff.
Lymphoma is classified as systemic, meaning the cancer travels throughout the entire body, even if it's not metastasizing in the traditional sense.
Surgically removing a tumor won't necessarily remove the lymphoma, making it essential to discuss realistic treatment options with your veterinarian.
Causes and Risk Factors
Lymphoma is a common malignant cancer that affects cats over ten years of age.
Cats that contract FeLV or FIV have a higher risk of developing lymphoma, which is the uncontrolled proliferation of lymphocytes.
Intact, outdoor, male cats have a slightly higher risk of developing lymphoma due to their increased risk of contracting FIV and FeLV from fighting behaviors.
Siamese cats and related breeds seem to be more prone to lymphoma.
Male and female cats are both subject to the risk of lymphoma.
Cats Diagnosis
Diagnosing lymphoma in cats can be a bit of a process, but it's essential to get a clear picture of what's going on.
Fine needle aspiration cytology or a biopsy are usually used to diagnose lymphoma in cats, depending on the extent of the disease and its location.
Vets may require additional testing, such as sampling of bone marrow or other organs, or molecular testing on tissues or blood, to confirm a diagnosis of lymphoma.
Some common diagnostics used to diagnose lymphoma in cats include bloodwork, like a Complete Blood Count (CBC) and full chemistry panel.
Testing for feline leukemia FeLV/FIV is also a part of the diagnostic process.
Other tests, like urinalysis and ultrasound imaging, may be used to evaluate the cat's GI tract, spleen, liver, and lymph nodes.
X-rays can be used to evaluate the lungs and lymph nodes.
Explore further: Can Allergies Cause Swollen Lymph Nodes in Dogs
Cats Diagnosed Prognosis
The prognosis for cats diagnosed with lymphoma varies greatly depending on the type of lymphoma and whether they have feline leukemia. Cats with gastrointestinal large cell lymphoma can live 6-9 months with treatment, and a small percentage can live up to 2 years.
Cats with small cell gastrointestinal lymphoma can live 2-3 years with ongoing care, but those with mediastinal lymphoma and feline leukemia face a poor prognosis of about 3 months.
Renal lymphoma has a very poor prognosis, with cats typically surviving only 3-6 months on average, although some cats have been known to survive far longer.
If left untreated, large cell lymphoma in cats will progress very quickly and be fatal.
Intriguing read: T Cell Lymphoma in Dogs
Is Feline Hyperesthesia Common?
Feline hyperesthesia is a condition that affects cats, but its prevalence is not explicitly stated in the article sections. However, cats that are positive for FeLV or FIV are more prone to developing lymphoma, which is a common form of malignant cancer in felines.
Lymphoma is a serious health issue that can affect cats of any age, but it's more common in older cats. Cats with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to lymphoma, which is often linked to FeLV or FIV.
See what others are reading: Common Causes of Death in French Bulldogs
Frequently Asked Questions
Can lymphoma be prevented in cats?
Lymphoma in cats cannot be prevented, but reducing the risk involves vaccinating against FeLV, avoiding infected cats, and maintaining a smoke-free environment. Taking these precautions may lower the likelihood of your cat developing the disease.
Does lymphoma in cats come on suddenly?
Lymphoma in cats can manifest either suddenly, with rapid onset of symptoms, or gradually, with chronic signs developing over months. The speed of onset often depends on the type of lymphoma, with large cell gastrointestinal lymphoma typically causing sudden symptoms.
Can diet cause lymphoma in cats?
Yes, diet can contribute to the development of lymphoma in cats, particularly when they consume dry food and are exposed to contaminants like iodine. Research suggests a link between chronic inflammation and modern cat diets, making nutrition a crucial factor in feline health.
Sources
Featured Images: pexels.com
