Author TB Thompson DVM has been a licensed, practicing veterinarian since 2000.
Rex, a big, happy, fluffy tabby cat, was more than just a pet to his family; he was their heart.
One spring, during a routine vet checkup, they faced a startling reality: Rex had a tumor in his mouth. As a veterinarian, I know the instant dread this news causes. That’s because many, but not all, oral tumors in cats are cancerous. And they’re quite challenging to treat.
This article is your guide to oral tumors in cats. We’ll explore what this diagnosis means for cats like Rex and their families, and offer insights into symptoms, treatments, and the journey ahead.
KEY POINTS
- Mouth tumors are relatively uncommon in cats but are often cancerous.
- Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type of oral cancer in cats.
- Treatment of oral tumors is often difficult and may involve surgery, radiation and palliative care.
Understanding Oral Tumors in Cats
When we talk about oral tumors in cats, we’re referring to abnormal growths that occur in a cat’s mouth. Although these growths can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and researchers have found that most are malignant. (1)
Older cats are most likely to develop mouth tumors. (2) They can develop in any part of the mouth, including the gums, lips, tongue, and the back of the throat. Oral tumors are not as common in cats as in dogs.
Types of Mouth Tumors in Cats
Different types of cells can grow into cancerous and benign tumors in a cat’s mouth. We will cover the more common oral tumor types found in cats.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common type of oral tumor found in cats.
It’s a malignant tumor that arises from the squamous cells, which are flat cells lining the mouth. This type of cancer is aggressive and can rapidly spread to other parts of the body, making early detection and treatment important.
Other Types of Oral Tumors
While SCC is the most prevalent, other types of oral tumors can affect cats:
- Fibrosarcoma: A less common, yet aggressive tumor that arises from the fibrous tissue of the mouth.
- Melanoma: Rare in cats and originates from pigment-producing cells.
- Odontogenic Tumors: These tumors originate from tooth-forming tissues and can vary from benign to malignant.
Symptoms to Watch For
Early detection of oral tumors in cats is critical for effective treatment. Here are some common indicators to watch out for:
- Bad breath
- Drooling or salivation
- Gagging, sneezing
- Trouble eating
- Visible mass or swelling in the mouth
- Weight loss
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Loose or missing teeth
- Facial swelling
- Bulging, red, teary eye
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule a visit with your veterinarian as soon as possible. They can do a thorough examination and determine the cause of these symptoms.
Rex’s Story: Living with Oral Cancer
Rex, a much-loved family cat, went through a tough time when he was found to have oral cancer during a dental check-up.
The vet surgically removed most of the tumor, but this type of cancer often comes back. Rex recovered quickly and enjoyed eating softer food for a while. But eating soon became painful for him and he would hide and cry after trying to eat.
As his illness got worse, his family chose to focus on keeping him comfortable rather than trying invasive treatments. They gave him lots of love and care, making his quality of life their top priority. Pain medicine helped a bit, letting him enjoy some happy times with the people he loved.
When it became clear that Rex was no longer comfortable, his family made the hard, but kind choice to let him go.
They arranged for a vet to come to their home, where Rex could pass away peacefully, surrounded by love. This decision was made with heavy hearts, but with Rex’s best interests at heart, making his final moments as gentle and loving as his life had been.
Diagnosis and Veterinary Evaluation
If you suspect your cat might have an oral tumor, the first step is a thorough veterinary examination.
This involves a complete physical examination, potentially a biopsy for definitive diagnosis, imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans to evaluate the extent of the tumor, and routine blood tests for overall health assessment.
Treatment Options
Treatment for oral tumors in cats depends on several factors, including the type, size, and location of the tumor. Common treatments include:
- Surgery: Often the primary treatment, especially if the tumor is localized.
- Radiation therapy: Used alone or in combination with surgery.
- Palliative care: Focuses on managing symptoms and maintaining comfort. This may involve the use of anti-inflammatory drugs, pain medications and appetite stimulants.
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Prognosis for Oral Tumors in Cats
The long-term outlook for cats with mouth tumors depends on the nature and location of the tumor. Generally, it’s not very promising.
Most of these cancers are very aggressive, and sadly, many cats don’t live long after being diagnosed.
| Type of Oral Tumor | Prognosis |
|---|---|
| Tooth-related tumors | Usually better with surgery or radiation. |
| Squamous cell carcinoma | Poor, even with treatment; a few months’ survival is typical. |
| Fibrosarcoma | Guarded but better if completely removed; often challenging. |
| Melanoma | Very poor; rapid spread, short survival even with treatment. |
Questions to Ask Your Vet
When your cat is diagnosed with a mouth tumor, having a clear conversation with your veterinarian is key. Here are some essential questions to help you understand your cat’s condition and the next steps:
- What type of tumor does my cat have?
- What are the treatment options? Should we consider a referral to a veterinary oncologist?
- What is the prognosis for this type of tumor?
- What are the signs of pain or discomfort I should watch for?
- What follow-up care or monitoring is needed?
Prevention and Early Detection
Preventive measures include regular dental care, avoiding carcinogens, providing a balanced diet, and regular veterinary check-ups. Early detection plays a key role in the success of treatment, so regular home examinations and observing behavioral changes are important.
Helpful Resources
- The Feline Cancer Support Group for cat caretakers on Facebook
- Animal Cancer Foundation website has articles and tips for pet owners.
- Veterinary Cancer Society website has listings of veterinary oncologists and other helpful resources for pet owners.
