Intestinal lymphoma is the most common form of cancer in cats, and most cats don't live more than a few months after the determination has been made that it has it.
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Symptoms
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Sudden onsets of diarrhea, pronounced lumps near the stomach or sides of the cat, extreme thirst, recurrent urination and anorexia are common symptoms. If no vomiting or diarrhea presents, still watch for pronounced weight loss.
Causes
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The exact cause is not known, but some believe exposure to cigarette smoke can speed the development of the cancer already present in the cat.
Testing
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Tests are performed usually via biopsy or full surgery where part of the intestine is removed. There are less aggressive approaches, but they are not always as accurate
Time Frame
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This form of cancer seems to attack after the age of 9 in most cases.
Treatments
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Surgery can remove any cancerous lumps but will not necessary stop the spread of the disease. Like other forms of feline cancer, chemotherapy is recommended.
Warning
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This cancer when spread to other bodily organs will severely weaken and eventually that bodily organ will die, so if you suspect your cat is suffering from this type of illness, make an appointment with a veterinarian promptly.
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