Cutaneous Lymphoma in cat

[Softpaws]

I'm kind of desparate for advice... I have a great 18 year old cat named Bing Crosby (he used to croon when he was a kitten). He developed lumps on his body about 2 months ago. I cuddle with Bing everyday so I know these lumps developed quickly. I took him to the vet the next day and the vet did a fine needle aspirate on the lumps. The vet said that he couldn't tell me exactly what type of tumour they were but that they looked nasty and should be removed. The next day my vet removed the lumps (Bing was such a trooper) and sent them away for analysis. The report came back with a diagnosis of Cutaneous Lymphoma. My vet told me that there hasn't been too much success treating this kind of cancer in cats but there were some things to try if I wanted. He gave me a list of treatment protocols which ALL sound quite nasty for Bing. I have been monitoring Bing very closely and his attitude is terrific, he is eating well, and he is the same sweet old guy everyone loves. Tonight I found two more lumps... I don't have any experience with this condition. My dilemma -- Do I attempt to treat the condition if Bing's quality of life is going to be horrible during the chemotherapy? Does anyone have any experience with this condition? Are the side effects of the treatment as nasty as they sound? HELP!

[Luba]

I'm so sorry to hear that.

Has your vet ruled out the possibility the cancer started elsewhere. Is the vet sure this is the primary cancer and not secondary? Something to mention and ask. Second, do you have a vet referral hospital where there are specialists? Such as a teaching facility? You may want to get referred there if there is one nearby. Find out what the statistics are like for the various treatments, this may help you to make a decision.

Also, you may want to if you can afford to do so, look into some holistic type of veterinary medicine. They may be able to recommend something to help boost your baby's immune system to help fight the cancer and survive the treatment.

[Karin]

Chemo is a mighty big step for a 18 year old cat. This treatment has come a long way and no one, human or animal has to suffer from the side effects. This all depends on the nature of the cancer and treatment prescribed...some have to have aggresive treatment. Sometimes age play's a big part too. Quality of life issues...will my loved one be happier for the remaining years with or without treatment? Only you can answer that.

Lead with your head, not your heart...in this case.

My .02 cents worth.

[Lucky Rescue]

Personally, I would not take any drastic measures with an 18 year old cat, and that includes chemo, etc. I never heard of cats getting chemo - learn something new every day.

I'm sorry about your kitty!!

[chico2]

Speaking from my heart,having owned several cats,I have to agree with Lucky.
At 18 yrs old,I believe the stress on your cat would be enormous and more than likely not prolong his life.
If he seems happy,eats and drinks and purrs right now,I would let him live as he always has,with you,until the time comes when you have to say good-bye