Cancer in Pets: The Best Cure is Prevention
Cancer is the number one disease-related killer of both cats and dogs, especially in our senior pets. No need to panic both cats and dogs are less plagued by this disease than people. 
But it’s a good idea to know what to look for and to start changing your pet’s routines now to help ward off disease.
Here are some signs to look for:
- Sores that don’t heal
- Abnormal discharges
- Swelling that persists or continues to grow
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Weight changes (up or down)
- Bleeding or discharge of any body opening
- Offensive odor
- Persistent lameness or stiffness
- Behavior changes
- Change in potty habits
- Evidence of pain
If your pet has these symptoms, don’t panic, as they are also symptoms of other diseases. But get your pet to your vet for a thorough check-up.
Although hereditary plays a role in this illness so does lifestyle. The best cure is prevention. Make sure your pet gets yearly physical exams, feed your pet a whole food, high-quality healthy diet, keep your pet at a healthy weight, minimize vaccinations, reduce their exposure to toxins (like fertilizers on the yard), check their body once a month for unusual lumps, and be sure they get daily exercise (we can help with that!).
The sooner you address an illness, the better the chance that your best friend will be around for a long time!
