Back to Disease DictionaryCancer
Lymphoma in Cats
The most common malignant tumor in cats, originating from lymphoid tissue. Gastrointestinal type is most common, with known association to FeLV infection.
Vet Supervised
Symptoms
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting/diarrhea
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Breathing difficulty (mediastinal type)
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Causes
- FeLV infection
- FIV infection
- Chronic inflammation (IBD)
- Genetic predisposition
- Environmental factors
Diagnosis
1
Cytology (FNA)
2
Biopsy + histopathology
3
Blood tests
4
Ultrasound/CT scan
5
Bone marrow examination
Treatment
- Chemotherapy (COP/CHOP protocol)
- Steroids (palliative)
- Radiation therapy
- Surgical excision (localized cases)
Prognosis
Varies greatly by type and stage. Small-cell type has good prognosis (median survival 2+ years), large-cell type is poor (months).
Severity: High
Prevention
- FeLV vaccination
- Regular health checkups
- Early IBD management
Epidemiology
Age Range
Most common in middle-aged to senior cats (average 10-12 years)
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