Hi

I have a wee cat who is 8 and a half. The other day i found 3 hard lumps on her side, she went to the vets tonight and she has said she is very sure its cancer. She is booked in for a big operation next week, they have to remove so much skin from around the lumps but they cant go too deep as its near her ribs. Absolutely gutted, she doesnt seem in any pain, is still eating and drinking normally. Just seems such a big thing for her to go through, but cant even begin to imagine life without her

Hi Gillian,

Sorry to hear about your cat ! It can be such a shock to hear news like this but I wouldn't despair just yet! How big are these lumps and how has she had them? It's a good she's acting normally otherwise.

Firstly, cancer can only be definitively diagnosed via a biopsy sent to the lab for analysis. Masses can also be abscesses, cysts lipomas and certain benign tumours. Has the vet ruled out any of these? It should be fairly easy to diagnose the first two by drawing off some of the fluid. I would discuss this with the vet before considering anything more invasive like surgery.

Even if it is confirmed some cancers like lymphoma are easily treated with steroids and even chemotherapy which unlike the case with humans, owing to the much smaller doses, does not have the same side-effects.

Hey Gillian,
you have to stay positive, a few years back we had a lovely black male called Tom. We found a huge lump on his side, they thought the worst and operated, turned out to be a cyst. He was about 10yrs old at the time.
Thinking of you and your puss..What is her name?

Thanks thats made me a wee bit less stressed. The vet never mentioned testing the fluid etc she just advised going straight in for the removal. I think i may take her to another vets for a second opinion and ask them about drawing some of the fluid to see. Havent slept a wink and absolutely gutted she is an amazing cat full of fun. She is called Abbey Thank you again and i will let you know when i find out more information. Dont want to leave it too long incase it is cancer, i know the earlier it is treated the better xx