Feline fibrosarcoma is a rare type of feline cancer. It is typically malignant and highly aggressive, and poses a significant threat to any cat’s well being. Fibrosarcoma results in tumors in the skin and connective tissue. As with most forms of feline cancer, a prompt diagnosis and treatment response is vital in order to ensure your pet’s lasting good health. In order for a veterinarian to make a proper diagnosis of the cancer, you must first recognize the causes and symptoms of feline fibrosarcoma. Read on for some tips of identifying and diagnosing this condition.
When to Suspect Feline Fibrosarcoma
Feline fibrosarcoma is unique amongst feline cancers because of its cause and source. Fibrosarcomas are caused by a particular reaction to a vaccine. Specifically, when a cat receives a vaccine, the area around the injection site becomes inflamed and sensitive. The large majority of cats experience slight discomfort and swelling for a few days, followed by a rapid alleviation of symptoms.
Cat fibrosarcomas, on the other hand, develop as a result of a negative reaction to the vaccine. Veterinarians do not entirely understand how the vaccine can rarely lead to the development of a cancerous tumor, but the connection is clear.
As a result, it is best to watch for signs of feline fibrosarcoma in the few weeks following a vaccine. Keep an eye on your pet for signs of prolonged inflammation or abnormal growth. A normal vaccine reaction should subside in a few days. If your cat’s behavior seems to change, or if the swelling and inflammation is not reduced after a few days, have your pet examined by a veterinarian for signs of fibrosarcoma or other complications.
Symptoms of Cat Fibrosarcoma
After your cat has received a vaccination, watch specifically for these warning signs, all of which are potential indicators of feline fibrosarcoma:
- Swelling and inflammation that persists or worsens over time
- Unusual bleeding
- Pain and difficulty while moving
- Labored chewing and swallowing
These symptoms may be present in cases of feline fibrosarcoma, but they may each indicate one or more other potentially serious diseases. In any case, it is important to react quickly by taking your pet to a veterinarian for examination upon detection of any of these warning signs.
Veterinary Diagnosis of Feline Fibrosarcoma
After you have reacted quickly upon the first signs of feline fibrosarcoma, your veterinarian can confirm the nature of the condition with a few laboratory tests. First, he will conduct a physical examination. Blood tests and x-rays may be helpful in identifying the source of the symptoms as well. Finally, if the location of the tumor is obvious, your vet may biopsy the tumor in order to determine whether it is benign or malignant.
Between these various tests and analyses, your veterinarian will be able to determine the nature of your cat’s condition. Following a diagnosis, speak with your veterinarian about specific treatment options that are appropriate for your pet based upon his health, age, condition and other factors.