Found a new lump or bump on your pet? Don’t wait and see… At Willow Grove Animal Clinic, we want you to feel confident about your pet’s health, especially when you notice something new. If you discover a lump or bump on your dog or cat, even if it’s small, painless, or seems harmless, don’t wait to see what happens. Dr. Susan Morphis reminds us: “You can’t tell how serious a lump is just by looking at it. A quick exam is the best way to know what’s going on.” The good news? Most pets don’t need sedation for us to take a look, and early detection often leads to the best outcomes.
Why Pet Cancer Awareness Month Matters
November is National Pet Cancer Awareness Month, a time to focus on prevention, early detection, and hope for better outcomes. Cancer is, unfortunately, one of the most common health challenges facing pets today. Veterinary research shows that one in four dogs and one in five cats will be diagnosed with some form of cancer in their lifetime. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), early detection can dramatically improve the chances of successful treatment. 🔍
What to Watch For
When it comes to lumps, bumps, or other changes, early action makes all the difference. Keep an eye out for:
- Lumps or swellings that persist or continue to grow
- Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
- Changes in bathroom habits or abnormal bleeding/discharge
- Lumps that change in size, color, or sensitivity
- Fatigue, coughing, or reduced activity
The Kansas State University Veterinary Health Center notes that even harmless-looking lumps can turn out to be more serious, so it’s always best to have them examined.
Common Cancers in Dogs
Some of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in dogs include:
- Mast cell tumors (skin)
- Lymphoma (lymph nodes and organs)
- Osteosarcoma (bone)
- Melanoma or oral tumors
The Animal Cancer Foundation reports that skin and lymphatic cancers are among the most common, especially in middle-aged and older dogs.
Common Cancers in Cats
Cats are often diagnosed with:
- Mammary (breast) tumors
- Oral squamous cell carcinoma
- Lymphoma (often related to FeLV or chronic inflammation)
According to the Veterinary Cancer Society, early diagnosis and surgery greatly improve the chances of recovery, especially for mammary tumors when found early.
How You Can Lower Your Pet’s Risk
While not all cancers can be prevented, you can help reduce risks and catch problems early:
- Stay current with wellness visits. Regular checkups help detect small changes before they become major concerns.
- Monitor lumps and bumps. Note the date and size when you first notice one, and have it examined if it changes.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity can weaken the immune system and increase cancer risk.
- Avoid environmental toxins. Limit exposure to cigarette smoke, pesticides, and lawn chemicals.
- Spay and neuter when appropriate. Spaying before the first heat cycle significantly reduces the risk of mammary cancer in female pets.
The University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine emphasizes that good nutrition, regular exercise, and preventive care all play important roles in reducing cancer risk.
What to Do If You Find a Lump
If you find something unusual:
- Don’t panic. Many lumps are benign (non-cancerous).
- Schedule an exam. Morphis can evaluate the lump and, if needed, perform a fine-needle aspiration or biopsy.
- Keep records. Track size, shape, and texture over time.
- Follow recommendations. We’ll guide you on whether to monitor, remove, or test further.
The AVMA recommends that any lump lasting more than a month or growing in size should be checked promptly by a veterinarian.
The Bottom Line
Cancer is a word no pet parent wants to hear, but early detection truly saves lives. Staying alert, checking for changes, and scheduling routine exams are the best tools we have to keep your pets healthy and comfortable for as many years as possible. This Pet Cancer Awareness Month, take a moment to give your pet a full-body check and schedule their wellness exam. Because when it comes to their health, “don’t wait and see”; act early and give them the best chance possible.
References
- American Veterinary Medical Association.
- Cancer in Pets.
- Kansas State University Veterinary Health Center.
- Pet Cancer Awareness Month Resources. Animal Cancer Foundation.
- Pet Cancer Statistics and Awareness.
- Veterinary Cancer Society.
- Common Cancers in Companion Animals.
- University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine.
- Pet Cancer Awareness and Prevention.
