Cancer is a scary word for anyone to hear, and it’s the last thing we want to think about when it comes to our beloved pets. But unfortunately, they’re not immune to the disease. One in five cats is likely to develop a form of cancer at some stage in their lives.

Like most other cancers, treatment in the early stages of cat skin cancer gives them a better chance of recovery. So, we’ve put together this handy guide on cat skin cancer symptoms to keep any eye out for, the treatment options, and what you can do to help prevent your cat from getting skin cancer.

What are the Different Types of Skin Cancer in Cats?

Cancer is the uncontrolled, abnormal growth of cells. The speed at which the cells spread, and the severity of the disease depends on the type of tissue cell affected. The most common forms of cancer that can affect feline skin are…

Malignant Melanoma

This cancer develops in the skin’s pigment-producing cells (melanocytes). It’s usually found in areas of mucous membranes like the mouth and nose, but it can also be found on skin with fur. It’s a fast-growing cancer that can quickly spread to lymph nodes and other organs.

The cause of malignant melanoma isn’t clear in cats, but it’s thought that genetics plays a part. In humans, UV light is the primary trigger.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma in cats is a type of cancer usually caused by exposure to the sun. First symptoms are often red, crusty areas of skin that may seem to come and go (solar dermatitis). They’re usually found on the tips of the ears but can also be found on other parts of the face and it could be mistaken for a minor graze. If left squamous cell carcinoma may progress to become a serious form of cancer.

Mast Cell Tumours

This cancer is found in the mast cells of a cat’s immune system. They can appear as a lump or remain under the skin. The cause of cancer has been linked to genetics, inflammation, and irritation. There is a higher incidence of mast cell tumours in Siamese cats.

Basal Cell Tumours

This type of tumour is an abnormal growth or mass due to uncontrolled division of basal cells, which make up the outermost layer of the skin, called the epidermis. Although this is a relatively common type of tumour in cats, fortunately, less than 10% of basal cell tumours are malignant. The cause is not fully known, but most seem to be a mix of environmental, genetic, and hereditary factors.

What are the Signs of Skin Cancer in Cats?

Skin cancer on cats can take different forms, but the most common symptoms of skin cancer are ulcers, scabs, lesion, warty lumps/bumps on the skin. These can be brown, black, grey, red, or pink in colour. Cancer can grow on the nose, in which case you’ll notice nosebleeds, nasal discharge and breathing difficulties. Most lumps and lesions are benign (non-cancerous), but you should get them checked by a vet regardless, as early intervention of a cancerous growth will have the best chance of recovery.

How is Cancer in Cats Diagnosed?

Diagnosing skin cancer requires investigation of cat skin cancer signs, like a lump or lesion. If your vet thinks your cat has cancer, they’ll need to perform a fine needle aspiration (FNA). This procedure involves using a small needle to suction out a sample of cells that can then be examined under a microscope to see whether the lump is cancerous. If the diagnosis is unclear, the next step is to take a surgical biopsy for examination, known as a histopathology.

If your vet suspects a type of cancer that spreads rapidly, they'll want to take a sample from the lymph nodes and perform an x-ray.

What are the Treatment Options for Cat Skin Cancer?

Surgical removal of skin tumours is often needed to get rid of cancer. If the cancer grows around their ears, they’ll need to have the outside of their ears removed. This can be quite a dramatic physical change, but cats adapt well to it and their hearing is unlikely to be affected.

Radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be offered depending on where the cancer is and how advanced or aggressive it is. Your vet will be able to advise you on the best course of treatment for your feline friend.

In most cases of skin cancer in cats, the prognosis is generally good. Most cats go on to make a full recovery and live a normal life with no further problems. But recovery depends on the type of cancer and how advanced or aggressive it is. In some unlucky cases, cancer can return after treatment.

Can Skin Cancer in Cats Be Prevented?

The risk of developing skin cancer increases as your cat gets older. It has also been linked to exposure to sunlight and cats with light or white fur are most vulnerable because there’s less protection from direct sunlight. Their ears, nose and lips are most exposed.

If your cat likes to sunbathe, use a feline friendly sunscreen on the areas of exposed white skin/hair on sunny days will help prevent skin burn. Some human baby suncreams are safe to use but avoid adult sun creams as they often contain ingredients that can be toxic to cats if licked, like zinc. Also try to discourage your cat from sunbathing during peak UV intensity (10am-3pm).

Not all skin cancers can be prevented, as there is sometimes a hereditary or genetic element, but it’s not usually fatal if treatment is started early.

No pet parent wants to be faced with the C word, but unfortunately, it is quite common. On the plus side, protecting your cat from sun exposure can help to prevent skin cancer, and cat’s that are diagnosed often have a positive outcome.

It’s important to regularly check your cat’s skin for any suspicious changes or growths and get them looked at by your vet as soon as possible. Cat skin cancer treatment usually involves surgical removal, and sometimes radiation or chemotherapy. Most cats go on to live a full life expectancy without any further problems.

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Content provided from Vetstream's Vetlexicon Felis - www.vetlexicon.com/felis

Vetlexicon is the world’s largest peer-reviewed online clinical reference source. All our content is written and peer-reviewed by over 1,000 of the world’s leading veterinarians, ensuring relevance, accuracy and quality.