Pet Cancer Awareness: Early Signs to Watch | Salt & Sea Veterinary Hospital
May is Pet Cancer Awareness Month, and at Salt & Sea Veterinary Hospital in Dana Point, our mission is to help pet parents stay informed, alert, and proactive when it comes to their pets' health. Just like with people, cancer in pets can be a devastating diagnosis—but with early detection and the right veterinary support, many pets can live longer, more comfortable lives.We believe that education is the first step in prevention and early diagnosis. That’s why we’re shedding light on the most common signs of cancer in dogs and cats—and why regular checkups with your trusted Dana Point veterinarian are essential in catching health concerns before they progress.
Why Early Detection of Pet Cancer is So Important
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in older dogs and cats. While a cancer diagnosis is never easy to hear, recognizing the warning signs early gives your pet the best chance at successful treatment. Unfortunately, many symptoms of cancer in pets can be subtle or mistaken for normal aging.
That’s why it’s essential to stay observant and schedule routine veterinary wellness exams—even if your pet seems healthy. Our Salt & Sea veterinary team is trained to spot early indicators of illness through physical exams and diagnostic testing. The sooner we catch something, the sooner we can act.
Common Warning Signs of Cancer in Pets
Cancer doesn’t always present in obvious ways. In many cases, the signs can mimic other common conditions or may be easy to overlook. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of subtle but concerning changes in your pet’s behavior or physical condition. If you notice any of the following symptoms, don’t wait—schedule a veterinary exam promptly.
1. Unusual Lumps or Bumps That Persist or Grow
Not all lumps are cancerous, but any mass that appears suddenly, changes in size, or doesn’t go away after a few weeks should be examined. A quick fine-needle aspirate or biopsy at our veterinary clinic can help determine whether further testing or removal is necessary.
2. Sores That Don’t Heal
Non-healing wounds may be more than just a minor scrape—they can be a sign of skin cancer or compromised immune function. Persistent skin lesions in pets should never be ignored.
3. Sudden Weight Loss or Loss of Appetite
A noticeable drop in weight, especially without any change in diet or activity level, is often a red flag. It can indicate an internal mass or metabolic changes related to cancer.
4. Difficulty Eating or Swallowing
This could signal oral tumors or growths in the neck or esophagus. If your pet is drooling more than usual, chewing oddly, or dropping food, it’s time to get them checked out.
5. Bleeding or Discharge from Any Body Opening
This includes blood in urine or stool, unexplained nosebleeds, or unusual discharge from the eyes, ears, or reproductive organs. These signs may point to internal tumors or organ involvement.
6. Persistent Lameness or Stiffness
Limping that doesn’t resolve could indicate a tumor affecting the bones or joints. Bone cancer (osteosarcoma) is particularly aggressive and often painful, so early evaluation is critical.
7. Difficulty Breathing, Urinating, or Defecating
Changes in your pet’s respiratory or elimination habits could suggest a mass affecting the lungs, bladder, or intestines. Don’t wait for these symptoms to worsen—seek veterinary attention right away.
Regular Wellness Exams Save Lives
Many types of pet cancer begin without obvious symptoms, which is why annual or semi-annual veterinary checkups are so important—especially as your pet ages. During each exam at Salt & Sea Veterinary Hospital, we perform a nose-to-tail assessment, checking for abnormalities like swollen lymph nodes, organ enlargement, or suspicious masses.
In addition to the physical exam, we may recommend:
Bloodwork to detect internal changes
X-rays or ultrasound for a closer look at organs and bones
Fine-needle aspiration or biopsy if we find an abnormal growth
Our advanced diagnostic tools help us detect issues earlier than what’s visible on the surface. And when it comes to cancer, early diagnosis can drastically improve your pet’s quality of life and treatment success rate.
Compassionate Care, Every Step of the Way
A cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming—but you’re not alone. At Salt & Sea Veterinary Hospital, we’re committed to walking with you through every stage of your pet’s health journey. If a diagnosis is confirmed, we’ll discuss your pet’s condition in detail, explain your options, and connect you with trusted veterinary oncologists when appropriate.
We collaborate closely with local specialists to ensure your dog or cat gets the best care possible. Whether the right plan involves surgery, chemotherapy, palliative care, or monitoring, we support you and your pet with compassion, clarity, and respect.
Salt & Sea Veterinary Hospital is family-owned, and we treat your pets like our own—because we know they are family too.
Stay Vigilant. Stay Informed. Stay Proactive.
This Pet Cancer Awareness Month, we encourage every pet parent to take action—whether that means scheduling a wellness exam, learning the warning signs of pet cancer, or sharing information with a fellow pet lover.
If you’ve noticed anything unusual in your pet’s behavior or appearance, don’t delay. Give us a call or book an appointment online. At Salt & Sea Veterinary Hospital, your pet’s health is our top priority—and early detection truly saves lives.
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