Intestinal lymphoma is currently the most common type of lymphoma in cats. Research shows that any cat can be affected, but this disease more commonly strikes older cats of at least 9 years of age.
It is slightly more common in males and domestic short hair breeds. Many treatment options are available and cats will respond differently, depending upon the type of treatment given and the progression of the disease.
Lymphoma in cats is ultimately fatal, so the best form of treatment is to give your cat the most comfortable existence and best quality of life possible.
Symptoms of Intestinal Lymphoma in Cats
Symptoms of intestinal lymphoma in cats vary a great deal depending upon the situation. Most noticeably, the cat will likely experience a gradual overall decline, including:
- weight loss
- lack of appetite
- loss of energy
- lethargy
Lymphoma may cause a mass which can potentially block the intestinal flow. Removal of a mass would require surgery and can be performed at the time of biopsy or testing for this disease. The cat may or may not experience vomiting and diarrhea, and may be increasingly thirsty or conversely, may refuse to drink water at all.
If water is refused, subcutaneous fluids can easily be given at home, or you may wish to try force feeding water with an eyedropper or plastic syringe. Sufficient fluids tend to increase quality of life and may encourage more of an appetite. Whether or not a mass is present in the intestines, lymphoma can spread throughout the intestines, leading to symptoms and great difficulty in returning to full health.
Treating Intestinal Lymphoma in Cats
Intestinal lymphoma in cats often resembles inflammatory bowel disease. In order to distinguish between the two, usually a full-thickness sample of the intestines will need to be collected via a biopsy. If lymphoma is found during testing, it will be graded as low, intermediate or high, depending upon the progression and rate of division of cancerous cells.
A grade of "high" is the most malignant and may be most difficult to treat due to rapid spreading of the diseased cells. Chemotherapy has shown some success, especially in cats with lower or intermediate grade lymphoma. Even cats that must have a blockage removed via surgery may benefit from follow-up treatments with chemotherapy.
Maintaining Quality of Life
Because lymphoma in cats is typically fatal and sometimes cats are unresponsive to drugs and expensive treatments, such as chemotherapy, the best option for a cat with this disease is to maintain quality of life for as long as possible. Keeping your cat hydrated can help substantially, and feeding a healthy diet will encourage a better overall feeling for the cat. You may find that the cat begins to refuse eating.
If this is the case, attempt different types of food, such as organic canned food or chicken. You may also find that the alternative health care industry offers herbal supplements or homeopathic remedies that could be of benefit in helping your cat to regain some strength and enjoy the remainder of his or her days.