According to Dr. Ruthanne Chun, assistant professor and oncology researcher at Kansas State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, cats and dogs can develop skin cancer lesions just like humans.
Estimates show that for every 100,000 dogs, 450 are diagnosed with some form of skin or subcutaneous-tissue (structures just below the skin) cancer, and 120 cats are diagnosed for every 100,000. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer among dogs and is the second most common cancer in cats, Chun said.
Chun added that the sun plays a big role in the development of skin cancer among cats and dogs.
"Just like fair-skinned people are more likely to have problems with skin cancer, white dogs and cats are more prone to skin cancers, especially on the areas of their body that are thinly haired, such as the belly on dogs, and the ear tips and around the eyes on cats," Chun said.
How to recognize skin cancer:
"Skin cancer may be a concern with any lump that persists or grows, is red or irritated looking, bleeds, or if the animal licks or scratches continuously at the site," Chun said. "Even though there may be a lump that is red or bleeding, that does not mean that it is malignant. However, it is always best to have any lump evaluated by a veterinarian."
Can we prevent skin cancer in our pets:
"White cats and cats with white on their face should not be allowed outdoors during sunny days. Likewise, dogs should not be allowed to 'sunbathe,' especially if they have thin-hair coats," Chun said.
Treatment for skin cancer:
That will depend on the type of the cancer and its location, but generally surgery is the most common treatment. Radiation therapy, cryotherapy (freezing the tumor), and chemotherapy are all used in the treatment process.
If you are the least bit suspicious, please take your pet to your local veterinarian. The sooner it is detected the better.
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