We often think of cancer as a lump or tumor that appears somewhere on our cat’s body. We usually see and feel it. However, with bone marrow cancer in cats, there is usually nothing to look for. Instead, we have to rely on other signs that may look similar to those of other kitten diseases. Because of this, bone marrow cancer is difficult to deal with. Fortunately, the more you understand this as an owner, the sooner you can seek veterinary care and improve the outcome for your feline friend.
What is Bone Marrow Cancer in Cats?
Bone marrow is the spongy interior of the bone, covered by a hard mineralized exterior. This is quite impressive as it is the main site of blood production. Red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets are produced and released in the bone marrow, all of which have important functions in the body. Bone marrow cancer in cats occurs when cancer cells decide to settle in the bone marrow, disrupting the normal flow that supplies the necessary blood cells. Sometimes, certain types are produced so much that there is an imbalance in the number of all blood cells produced, or abnormal blood cells that do not work properly are produced. Either way, this means bad news for all body functions that rely on blood cells to perform.
Bone marrow cancer takes several different forms in cats, including multiple myeloma, lymphoma, and metastatic cancer that has traveled from other parts of the body and found refuge in the bone marrow. All of these types can produce similar symptoms.
What Are the Signs of Bone Marrow Cancer in Cats?
Rather than a direct tumor or lump, bone marrow cancer can cause relatively vague signs that may indicate several diseases. These signs may include:
- Weakness, weakness, depression
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Lameness
- Behavioral changes, such as hiding and vocalizing
- Increased water consumption
- Bloody urine or stool
- Unexplained bleeding
Your cat may also have a history of frequent infections, you may notice one or two on other parts of the body, and they may show pain by vocalizing more, secreting more, and not wanting to. you move often or be touched.
What Causes Bone Marrow Cancer in Cats?
Fortunately, bone marrow cancer in cats is relatively rare. Unfortunately, we can’t point fingers at a specific cause. Instead, bone marrow cancer appears to be caused by the same things that cause other types of cancer, including genetics, exposure to chemicals and irritants such as smoke and toxins, and other diseases.
Infections with feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus can also increase a cat’s chance of developing bone marrow cancer and other blood abnormalities due to factors associated with any other type of cancer, including UV exposure. and certain vaccines, as these can metastasize to the bone. brain.
To do your best to prevent bone cancer in cats, make sure your kitten is up-to-date on vaccinations, avoids contact with sick cats, and is exposed to the least amount of environmental toxins possible. Regular veterinary care can also play a role, as your vet can help monitor your cat’s health in ways you can’t at home to hopefully catch any illnesses before they become a big problem.
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How Is Bone Marrow Cancer Diagnosed in Cats?
You will probably notice that your kitten is acting strangely, so you may decide to monitor them for a few days and then take them to the vet because they are not acting right. Maybe you’ve seen a change in appetite or energy level or even weight loss, or maybe their frequent illnesses have you worried. Either way, bone marrow cancer is probably not the first issue that comes to mind.
It’s also probably not the first issue on your vet’s mind, so they’ll need to rule out other causes of the signs you’re seeing by doing a thorough exam, asking you questions, and running tests. Blood work can show abnormalities in blood cells, including differences in size, shape, and number. It will also give them insight into how your cat’s organs work. X-rays may be taken to examine bone structure and to look for tumors in other areas. Ultrasound may also be helpful for this.
If the results of these tests put your vet on the track of bone marrow cancer, they may perform a urinalysis to check for Bence-Jones proteins, which can indicate bone marrow cancer. From there, a sample is required for a definitive diagnosis.
How Do I Care for a Cat With Bone Marrow Cancer?
In many cases, bone marrow cancer may not be cured. Treatment aims to make your cat as comfortable as possible and prolong their quality of life. How your vet does this depends on the type of bone marrow cancer your cat has, their general health, and whether the cancer has spread.
Treatment options may include surgical removal if the cancer is isolated or chemotherapy and/or radiation if not. However, with these types of treatments, it is best to weigh the outcome with the side effects.
Supportive care may also be offered in the form of corticosteroids to help suppress cancer activity, pain medications to help your cat feel better, and antibiotics to treat secondary infections due to decreased immune function. Cats may need to be hospitalized, especially in the early stages of treatment, to make sure they are managing well and the side effects are not too severe.
Bone marrow cancer in cats is difficult to remove, especially if it originates from a tumor that has metastasized. So, expect to have an in-depth conversation with your veterinarian about your cat’s quality of life and the potential to prolong that quality or the potential for treatment side effects to negatively impact it.
At home, whether you choose to treat or not, you will need to protect your cat from potential illnesses, as their ability to fight diseases will likely be reduced. This means keeping them away from unvaccinated critters, keeping them indoors, and providing them with a quality diet and a safe place to rest.
You may need to get creative to boost your cat’s appetite, such as offering canned food or changing the flavor options. Make sure your kitten drinks enough water to prevent dehydration, and give them plenty of one-on-one time with lots of love and affection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Prognosis for Bone Marrow Cancer in Cats?
How long your kitten with bone marrow cancer lives depends on several things, including the type of cancer, stage, and their overall health. It may also depend on the treatments taken and how they respond to those. While a treatment can prolong a cat’s quality of life for a while, the long-term prognosis for bone marrow cancer is quite poor. Your cat is unlikely to be completely cured of bone marrow cancer, but they can live a comfortable life under your care.
What Are the Early Warning Signs of Bone Marrow Cancer in Cats?
Unfortunately, there are no specific signs of bone marrow cancer. Instead, what you’ll likely see is your kitten acting out a bit. Maybe you can’t put your finger on it directly, but you just know something is up. Maybe they don’t eat as much, maybe they drink less, or they just aren’t as fussy as they used to be. Perhaps they have hid or started crying more often. Either way, any change in your cat’s habits or behavior requires a visit to the vet.
Conclusion
Bone marrow cancer is relatively rare in cats, and it can be difficult to diagnose early because of its vague signs. It’s also unlikely to be cured, but that doesn’t mean the cat can’t live as high a quality of life as possible with treatment and supportive care. Talk to your vet about any abnormal signs or behavioral changes you see in your cat to catch issues early and achieve the best possible outcome.
Featured Image Credit: Sata Production, Shutterstock
