Symptoms of Cancer in a Male Cat

Cancer is a possibly fatal disease that can affect cats just as it does humans. Cancer is caused by the abnormal growth and rapid replication of cells within a certain area of the body. This can cause lumps or masses that then break off and spread to other parts of the body, impeding organ function. Male cats are susceptible to a variety of cancers.

  1. Tumors

    • One of the most common symptoms cancer in cats is the formation of masses on the cat's body. While mammary cancer is much more common in female cats, a male cat may develop it as well. If a male cat has a tumor on his chest, it is likely to be a form of breast cancer. This is especially true for cats nine years or older. Growths can form anywhere on the body, and may only be a centimeter or two in diameter, but a diagnosis needs to be made immediately.

    Weight Loss

    • If your male cat suddenly stops eating and/or drops a lot of weight quickly, cancer could be the culprit. The weight loss can come from multiple sources. Tumors could be forming internally in the intestinal tract and obstructing food from being properly digested, or tumors could be forming elsewhere, causing sickness or pain and loss of appetite. Sudden weight loss is almost always indicative of a serious illness and the cat should see a vet as soon as possible.

    Swelling and Redness in Testes

    • While testicular cancer is rare in cats, it is possible. Testicular cancer is usually categorized by swelling and increased tenderness. The testes frequently become red and inflamed, accompanied by other symptoms such as weight loss and vomiting. Neutering your male cat can completely eliminate the risk of this cancer.