Cat Lymphoma & Chemotherapy

Lymphoma occurs when the cells in small immune systems organs called lymph nodes begin to grow uncontrollably, forming tumors. Veterinarians typically rely on chemotherapy or the use of intravenous medications to treat cat lymphoma.

  1. Function

    • Chemotherapy for cat lymphoma works by destroying the cancerous cells within a cat's lymph nodes. The treatment is systemic, meaning it affects the cat's whole body, killing the cancer cells throughout its body if the disease is widespread.

    Types of Drugs

    • Veterinarians typically use a combination of the medications vincristine, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide and prednisone for the treatment of cat lymphona, explains the Pet Education website.

    Time Frame

    • The length of time that a cat will receive chemotherapy for lymphoma varies based upon the type and severity of the cancer as well as the medications being used. Usually, treatment is given at least every week for a minimum of three to four weeks, reports the Merck Veterinary Manual.

    Prognosis

    • About 70 percent of cats respond to chemotherapy treatment for lymphoma, according to Pet Education. Of these cats, 30 to 40 percent survive for two years or more, while the rest live four to six months after treatment.

    Considerations

    • Chemotherapy for cat lymphoma can be very expensive and may not extend an animal's life for very long. Because of this, some pet owners opt for euthanasia rather than treating the disease.