Feline Chemotherapy

Cancer occurs in a cat when cells in one part of the animal's body begin to grow uncontrollably, forming tumors. Among the many treatments available for cancer is chemotherapy, the use of prescription medications.

  1. Function

    • Feline chemotherapy drugs prevent cancer cells from dividing and continuing to grow. Without the ability to continue growing, the cancers cells eventually die.

    Types of Medications

    • In most cases, feline chemotherapy is given intravenously, according to the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Illinois. The drugs used for cats are the same medications given to people and include cisplatin, ifosfamide and dacarbazine.

    Time Frame

    • One feline chemotherapy treatment usually lasts three to six hours, according to the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Illinois. The treatment is typically repeated at least once per week with the number of weeks that treatment continues varying based on the type of cancer being treated and the medications being used.

    Risks

    • Most cats develop diarrhea at least once or twice during an entire course of chemotherapy, and some cats also lose their whiskers due to the treatment, reports the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Illinois. Because chemotherapy drugs can suppress the immune system, cats may be more susceptible to bacterial, viral and fungal infections while undergoing treatment.

    Considerations

    • Cat chemotherapy typically costs as little as $200 to as much as $2,000, depending on the type and frequency of treatment, according to CostHelper.com. Because of the cost associated with treatment, some pet owners may opt for euthanasia, especially in older cats.