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Signs & Symptoms of Cancer in Dogs
Dogs can be afflicted by various types of cancers, just like humans. Knowing the signs and symptoms of cancer in dogs can help you spot the disease early and get proper medical treatment.
Symptoms to Watch For
Not all cancers display the same symptoms, so you should be aware of any behavioral changes or physical signs that suggest a problem. Look out for these symptoms that may indicate cancer in your dog:
- Weight loss – Unexplained weight loss is a symptom that could point to cancer, as this is the most common physical sign.
- Lethargy – Loss of energy or reduced activity level with no other underlying medical cause is another symptom.
- Lumps – Look out for any lumps that have suddenly appeared on your dog’s body.
- Pain – If your dog is displaying any signs of pain such as limping, there may be an underlying medical issue causing it which could be cancer.
- Irritable behavior – If your dog’s personality changes and it displays irritated behavior or even aggression without any obvious cause, it could be a result of cancer.
Diagnosing Cancer
If you suspect your dog has cancer, the first step is to take it to the vet for a diagnosis. Your vet will likely conduct a physical exam and then conduct tests in order to confirm or rule out cancer. These tests include:
- X-rays
- Ultrasounds
- Blood tests
- Tissue samples (biopsy)
Once the results of the tests are in, your vet should be able to give you a diagnosis and provide options for treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment of cancer in dogs is essential in order to improve the chances of successful recovery.
If you have any concerns that your dog may have cancer, contact your vet and have it assessed as soon as possible. It’s important to remember that not all symptoms suggest cancer, but getting checked by your vet is the only way to be sure.