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Pet Cancer Signs

November is Pet Cancer Awareness Month. Know the top 10 warning signs of pet cancer from the American Veterinary Medical Association.

If you notice any of these warning signs, get an appointment with your vet to check things out as soon as possible.

#1 – Enlarged or Changing Lumps and Bumps

Once or twice a month, take a few minutes to feel your pet’s body for any lumps, bumps or abnormal swelling. Check for swollen lymph nodes, most easily detected around the jaw, shoulders, armpits, and behind the legs. Make a note of any bumps (their size and location) to make sure they aren’t growing or changing shape over time.

#2 – Sores that Don’t Heal

If your cat or dog has an open wound that won’t heal, it could be a sign of something more serious, such as an infection or cancer.

#3 – Chronic Weight Loss or Gain

If you haven’t changed your pet’s diet or food, but they’re gaining or losing weight, this could signify an illness. Weight loss or weight gain can indicate a possible tumor in the stomach. Another related symptom could be chronic vomiting or diarrhea.

#4 – Change in Appetite

Is your dog or cat eating more – or less – than usual? Are they trying to eat foods they were previously had no interest in? Drastic changes in your pet’s appetite could be a sign of cancer.

#5 – Persistent Cough

There are many reasons why dogs might have a persistent cough. For younger pups that were recently adopted or placed in boarding, a persistent cough could be a sign of kennel cough. In older dogs, a dry persistent cough could indicate a tumor near the heart or lung cancer.

#6 – Persistent Lameness or Stiffness

When a pet is limping on one foot or no longer wants to walk or exercise, this can be a sign of osteosarcoma or bone cancer.

# 7 – Really Bad Breath

No animals have minty fresh breath! But if you detect a particularly foul smell emanating from your pet’s mouth even with regular grooming, it could be a sign of oral cancer. Not all pets that have oral cancer exhibit pain or have trouble eating, so it’s a good idea to consult your veterinarian.

#8 – Difficulty Breathing, Eating or Swallowing

A tumor in the mouth or neck can create pressure and make it difficult for your pet to eat or drink. A tumor near the esophagus, nose or lungs can block airways, making it harder for your pet to breathe.

#9 – Difficulty Urinating or Defecating

Dogs and cats can develop tumors in their urinary tracts, which can make it difficult to urinate. Similarly, if you see your pet is having trouble defecating or there is a sustained foul odor from the rear, a mass near the anus might be the culprit.

#10 – Bleeding or Discharge from any Opening

Consult your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unexplained bleeding or discharge from any opening. Bleeding is a common sign of cancer and other illnesses. Oral cancer can cause gums to bleed. Nose cancer can cause the nose to bleed.

If your pet is experiencing any of these warning signs, schedule an appointment with us right away.

Johnson Ranch Animal Clinic Reviews
  • 5 star rating

    This vet office is awesome! people are super caring of my Dogs health. Dr. Schmidt took the time and answered all my questions and made sure I understood. I didn't... read more

    Jessica B.
    1/20/2017
  • 5 star rating

    Best vet I've ever visited by far! Dr. Bauer was wonderful. She took her time, comforted our little dude, did a thorough examination, and was so kind and gentle throughout.... read more

    Erika L.
    8/23/2017
  • 5 star rating

    I took our American Staffordshire Bull Terrior puppy here yesterday for some skin problems and he and I loved Dr. Bowers! She was fantastic and her staff was... read more

    Jessica C.
    8/29/2017
  • Great bedside manner! Love how much time was spent with us and ensuring all of our questions were answered. Highly recommend this clinic.

    Kristi Longstreet
    4/22/2020
  • Employees were courteous and professional. They listened to my concerns and were able to put me at ease about my pet.

    Dennis Garcia Sr
    9/19/2022
  • 5 star rating

    I'm very pleased with the treatment received from Doctors Kelly Bowers and Natalie Brown for my cat Peaches. They diagnosed my cat's problem as stress and the treatments prescribed have... read more

    James H.
    2/03/2020
  • As a new customer to Johnson Ranch Animal Clinic, I was impressed by the ease of making an appointment and the precautions taken by the clinic in making me and... read more

    Darlene Maly
    4/22/2020
  • Everyone is always kind, helpful, and answers all of our questions. We recommend Johnson Ranch Animal Clinic all the time!

    Diane Tournis
    5/01/2020
  • We just had to let go of the family dog after 15 years. They were so kind, considerate, and gentle. Very nicely done.

    b'Ditta Paxbt
    10/03/2022
  • 5 star rating

    Dr Schmidt is the best. Super caring and thorough in his exams. New office staff are up to speed, and this place is conveniently located near me, but the parking... read more

    Donn D.
    8/26/2020
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Contact Johnson Ranch Animal Clinic
  • P: (480) 987-4555
  • 270 East Hunt Hwy, Ste. #4
  • San Tan Valley, AZ 85143
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Clinic Hours

Open 5 Days a Week
Mon - Fri 7am-7pm
Sat - Sun Closed

For Emergency 24 hour care please visit Gilbert Queen Creek Emergency Veterinarian @ 18610 E Rittenhouse Rd Building B, Queen Creek, AZ 85142
Phone: 480-674-3200
Online: gqvet.com

Contact Johnson Ranch Animal Clinic