Lymphoma is a term frequently associated with cancer, both in humans and animals. Lymphoma fits that description because it is a malignant tumor. Lymphoma is a cancer that specifically targets lymphatic organs and tissue (a component of the immune system that can be found in various areas of the body).
About a third of all feline malignancies are lymphomas. Lymphoma most commonly manifests itself in the intestines of felines because this is where lymphatic twill besue is found. The intestinal type of lymphoma accounts for almost 40% of all cases in cats. The small intestine is usually the sole organ affected by intestinal lymphoma in cats, despite the disease occasionally being referred to as gastrointestinal lymphoma.
Risk Factors
Researchers in the veterinary field have yet to pinpoint a specific cause for intestinal lymphoma, but they have identified two major risk factors: advancing age and a history of immune system disorders.
Cats of a ripe old age, 9 or more, have a markedly increased risk of developing intestinal lymphoma. Lymphoma risk also exists for felines who have been exposed to either the feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) or the feline leukemia virus (FeLV). Vaccines exist for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), thus it’s crucial to get your cats vaccinated.
A preexisting cancer in your cat may spread more quickly if he is exposed to secondhand smoking.
Outlook for Cats with Intestinal Lymphoma
The prognosis for a cat with an early diagnosis of low-grade lymphoma is quite favorable, especially if the animal receives prompt and successful therapy. It is unfortunate that many cats are not diagnosed with lymphoma until it has progressed to an intermediate or high stage. There is a diminished therapeutic window for these lymphomas. This means that cats with higher-stage intestinal lymphoma are less likely to make it.
Bring your cat in as soon as you notice any symptoms to enhance the chances of early detection.
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