Signs & Symptoms of Colon Cancer in Cats

Feline colon cancer is not a common illness. The symptoms often mimic those of other feline colon problems, from infections to dietary problems. If your cat is experiencing colon problems, your veterinarian can determine whether cancer is the cause, and if so, it must be treated as quickly as possible.

  1. Physical Symptoms

    • If your cat has colon cancer, it may have trouble with bowel movements. The cancer may cause obstructions in the intestines. It may not be able to produce bowel movements at all, or there may be some painful straining, and the cat may hiss, whine or growl. While some cats may not defecate at all, others may do so more than usual. Keep a close watch on your cat̵7;s litter-box behavior so that you are aware of changes that you need to inform your veterinarian about.

    Clues in the Stool

    • Once you are familiar with your cat̵7;s litter-box habits, make yourself familiar with the stool. Healthy stool usually looks similar to a tootsie roll. Abnormal stool may be loose, watery, extra dry or hard. Look for blood in the stool, which can appear as extremely dark spots or bright red. Mucous in the stool is another possible indication of feline colon cancer. Examine your cat̵7;s stool for signs of trouble and make a note of them so that you can inform your veterinarian.

    General Cancer Symptoms

    • There are a few signs and symptoms displayed by a cat with cancer of any sort. Swelling may occur in the area affected by cancerous growths (the abdominal area in the case of colon cancer). The cat may experience weight loss or loss of appetite. Your cat may seem depressed or disinterested. Weakness, anemia or lethargy are typical in cats who have cancer. Again, make a note of any unusual behavior or symptoms your cat experiences.