Tumor on Face/Gums
Question:
Hi Beth my friend is going thru same thing with her cat he has being recieving chemo for it and it has shrunk almost to nothing. Now my friends cat also has aids and diabetes so totally different cases. But the chemo seems to be working. Just thought I would let you know. Best of Luck and Take Care. My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really hard on the cat. She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor appears to be the same. Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations? faro.vcf (x-vcard attachment) Animals are creatures of God, created by love and kindness, treat them as you would like to be treated.
Response:
> My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of > . . . > She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal > personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor > appears to be the same. > Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
A tumor that large did not develop in one week. Even a very fast growing cancer (e.g., squamous cell carcinoma), takes months to show a noticeable change. In any case, get this cat to another vet ASAP. — JR
Response:
I missed the statement that the "tumor" had developed in just a week! I would have to agree with the others…if the cat was truely "tumor" free a week ago, I would doubt it is cancer. I would be more likely to think it is an infection, absess, or some sort of tooth problem. Definately get a second opinion!! While cancer tumors can double in size very quickly (my mother-in-law had a leg tumor that was growing so fast that she would have lost her leg had she waited an additional week to have it removed), they do not grow as large as you have indicated in such a short time, unless the tumor was already fairly noticable to begin with. I think your vet is missing something in his diagnosis. Catherine, Loki and Freya — Generic Lame-O Signature Follows: Matos, Catherine Anne Moseley http://www.prism.gatech.edu/~cm85 Yes, I love being a graduate student! Really! I mean it!
Response:
I agree with other opinions on the group but I recomend you to see this page: http://www1.geocities.com/HotSprings/1158/animal_cancer.htm Hope it will help. Best regards, Lillian, Maja and Kedi
Response:
My cat had the same thing many years ago, one vet said it was cancer and gave me our options so I took her to another only to find out it was an abcessed tooth. The tooth was pulled,infection drained and she stayed for several days for IV antibiotics and I’m happy to say next month she’ll be seeing her 18th birthday! Please get a second opinion… Sandy
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed >in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of >his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" >positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of >cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of >the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is >malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the >tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if >it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If >we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, >she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without >removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating >symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really >hard on the cat. >She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal >personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor >appears to be the same. >Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
My first cat had what was probably the very same thing. She was around the same age (we had had her for about 9 years, and she was maybe a year old when we got her). My parents had the tumor removed twice, while it was still small, but it kept coming back. This was before radiation for pets was common, so all they did was cut out tissue. This extended her life for maybe a year or so. It sounds like your parents’ cat’s cancer (that is most likely what it is, assuming the vet has ruled out absesses and teeth problems) has progressed too far to cut out the tumor. You can try radiation- it may shrink the tumor enough for it to be cut out, but that is a decision only you and your parents can really make. I would go and talk to a animal onocologist (cancer doctor) to discuss the chances of that suceeding, though. In my cat’s case, the tumor would grow back faster each time…the third time it spread into her nasal cavity, and she would sneeze pieces of something everywhere. 
I don’t think she was ever in very much pain, though…she continued hunting chipmunks and moles and everything until shortly before we had her put to sleep. That decision was made by my mom, and it is still the hardest thing I have ever done, since I chose to be there as they put her down. My sympathies…I know how hard this must be. Talk with someone who deals with cancer in pets (not just your regular vet), and make the decision on how to proceed from there. And make Spike as happy as can be in the time you have left. Catherine, Loki and Freya — Generic Lame-O Signature Follows: Matos, Catherine Anne Moseley http://www.prism.gatech.edu/~cm85 Yes, I love being a graduate student! Really! I mean it!
Response:
I agree with the others. The fact this is responding to antibiotics makes me think it might be an abcess, but some cancers are very aggressive and this might be one of them. Face swelling and tooth displacement indicate something is growing extremely rapidly. Can you call the vet and get an exact name for the diagnosis? I definitely think you need a second opinion. I have some links on feline cancer which might help. Click on the link below and check the articles linked under Cancer: http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Pointe/9352/alphalinks.html – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of > cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of > the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is > malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the > tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if > it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If > we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, > she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without > removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating > symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really > hard on the cat. > She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal > personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor > appears to be the same. > Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
– Tally’s Page Cat Health & Behavior Links, Special Remembrances, Animal Issues & Photos! http://www.tallyville.com
Response:
Beth, Another thing your parents could consider asking a Vet— See if either your Vet (or possibly a new Vet would be the best as Phil suggested) can take a Right Lateral Facial bones x-ray, (include the mandible) and either an AP or PA position of the facial bones, if this has not been done. Tell them to use less technique than they normally would for a skull x-ray. Is the tumor fluid filled, is it solid? (BTW, the *top* of the cat’s head can be held by a tech with a lead apron and special sponges to hold the head in place and someone else can hold the rest of the cat’s body). No need for anesthesia for these two x-rays. This will tell her more of the extent of the growth/tumor and if it has affixed itself to bone. You cannot really tell just by feeling the area, much of this could be swelling. If this is fluid filled, she can use a needle to draw out the fluid and have piece of tissue from the "tumor" site for a biopsy. As Phil mentioned this is the only way to be certain that this is indeed, cancer. BTW, *did* the Vet run any blood work? Please post again and let us know what you have found out. Good luck to all concerned. Sincerely, Karen, Benji and Snoopy
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Cancer does not develop in a week. Fact. Cancer cannot be diagnosed > without biopsy. Fact. Malignancy cannot be determined without > histopathologic examination of tissue. Fact. > The only thing that’s a 99% certainty, is that you need to find a new vet. > I would suggest a complete diagnostic work up at a veterinary university > hospital before you even remotely consider euthanasia. > Don’t mistake "good bedside manners" for competency. To make such a grave > prognosis in the absence of proper diagnostics, is irresponsible bordering > on incompetency. > http://maxshouse.com/cancer.htm > http://maxshouse.com/understanding_cancer.htm > http://maxshouse.com/soft_tissue_sarcomas.htm > Good luck. > Phil. > See original post—- > My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning
Response:
I think you should definitely get a second opinion. A specialist or a University Vet Hospital would be best. What area do you live in? One of the people of the newsgroup is very knowledgeable about Vet Schools. Maybe he can give you a recommendation. Debra Berry – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of > cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of > the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is > malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the > tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if > it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If > we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, > she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without > removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating > symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really > hard on the cat. > She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal > personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor > appears to be the same. > Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
Response:
Personally, I find it kind of odd that a cancerous tumor developed in just a week, and that an antibiotic is helping the cat to feel well, even if his face is still swollen. To me (non-medical though I am) that doesn’t jive with cancer very well. It *sounds* a bit more like some sort of bacterial infection, to my un-educated brain. I also find it odd that the vet wouldn’t do a biopsy right away, to determine just what this tumor is. I’d certainly want to know if it is indeed malignant, or not. If not, then it seems there *has* to be a way to help the cat out. How about seeking a second vet’s opinion? Good luck! Cathy
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of > cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of > the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is > malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the > tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if > it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If > we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, > she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without > removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating > symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really > hard on the cat. > She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal > personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor > appears to be the same. > Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
Response:
Cancer does not develop in a week. Fact. Cancer cannot be diagnosed without biopsy. Fact. Malignancy cannot be determined without histopathologic examination of tissue. Fact. The only thing that’s a 99% certainty, is that you need to find a new vet. I would suggest a complete diagnostic work up at a veterinary university hospital before you even remotely consider euthanasia. Don’t mistake "good bedside manners" for competency. To make such a grave prognosis in the absence of proper diagnostics, is irresponsible bordering on incompetency. http://maxshouse.com/cancer.htm http://maxshouse.com/understanding_cancer.htm http://maxshouse.com/soft_tissue_sarcomas.htm Good luck. Phil. "With the qualities of cleanliness, discretion, affection, patience, dignity, and courage that cats have, how many of us, I ask you, would be capable of being cats?’ –Fernand Mery Feline Healthcare & More: http://maxshouse.com
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of > cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of > the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is > malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the > tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if > it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If > we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, > she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without > removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating > symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really > hard on the cat. > She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal > personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor > appears to be the same. > Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
Response:
My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really hard on the cat. She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor appears to be the same. Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
faro.vcf
< 1K Download
Response:
Beth, I do not have any practical advise for you on this topic. But I wanted to send my sympathies and let you know that Spike and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Please keep us updated on Spike’s situation. Amanda – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of > cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of > the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is > malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the > tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if > it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If > we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, > she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without > removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating > symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really > hard on the cat. > She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal > personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor > appears to be the same. > Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
amandaf.vcf
< 1K Download
Response:
Hi Beth my friend is going thru same thing with her cat he has being recieving chemo for it and it has shrunk almost to nothing. Now my friends cat also has aids and diabetes so totally different cases. But the chemo seems to be working. Just thought I would let you know. Best of Luck and Take Care. My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really hard on the cat. She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor appears to be the same. Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations? faro.vcf (x-vcard attachment) Animals are creatures of God, created by love and kindness, treat them as you would like to be treated.
Response:
> My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of > . . . > She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal > personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor > appears to be the same. > Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
A tumor that large did not develop in one week. Even a very fast growing cancer (e.g., squamous cell carcinoma), takes months to show a noticeable change. In any case, get this cat to another vet ASAP. — JR
Response:
I missed the statement that the "tumor" had developed in just a week! I would have to agree with the others…if the cat was truely "tumor" free a week ago, I would doubt it is cancer. I would be more likely to think it is an infection, absess, or some sort of tooth problem. Definately get a second opinion!! While cancer tumors can double in size very quickly (my mother-in-law had a leg tumor that was growing so fast that she would have lost her leg had she waited an additional week to have it removed), they do not grow as large as you have indicated in such a short time, unless the tumor was already fairly noticable to begin with. I think your vet is missing something in his diagnosis. Catherine, Loki and Freya — Generic Lame-O Signature Follows: Matos, Catherine Anne Moseley http://www.prism.gatech.edu/~cm85 Yes, I love being a graduate student! Really! I mean it!
Response:
I agree with other opinions on the group but I recomend you to see this page: http://www1.geocities.com/HotSprings/1158/animal_cancer.htm Hope it will help. Best regards, Lillian, Maja and Kedi
Response:
My cat had the same thing many years ago, one vet said it was cancer and gave me our options so I took her to another only to find out it was an abcessed tooth. The tooth was pulled,infection drained and she stayed for several days for IV antibiotics and I’m happy to say next month she’ll be seeing her 18th birthday! Please get a second opinion… Sandy
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed >in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of >his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" >positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of >cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of >the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is >malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the >tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if >it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If >we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, >she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without >removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating >symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really >hard on the cat. >She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal >personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor >appears to be the same. >Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
My first cat had what was probably the very same thing. She was around the same age (we had had her for about 9 years, and she was maybe a year old when we got her). My parents had the tumor removed twice, while it was still small, but it kept coming back. This was before radiation for pets was common, so all they did was cut out tissue. This extended her life for maybe a year or so. It sounds like your parents’ cat’s cancer (that is most likely what it is, assuming the vet has ruled out absesses and teeth problems) has progressed too far to cut out the tumor. You can try radiation- it may shrink the tumor enough for it to be cut out, but that is a decision only you and your parents can really make. I would go and talk to a animal onocologist (cancer doctor) to discuss the chances of that suceeding, though. In my cat’s case, the tumor would grow back faster each time…the third time it spread into her nasal cavity, and she would sneeze pieces of something everywhere. I don’t think she was ever in very much pain, though…she continued hunting chipmunks and moles and everything until shortly before we had her put to sleep. That decision was made by my mom, and it is still the hardest thing I have ever done, since I chose to be there as they put her down. My sympathies…I know how hard this must be. Talk with someone who deals with cancer in pets (not just your regular vet), and make the decision on how to proceed from there. And make Spike as happy as can be in the time you have left. Catherine, Loki and Freya — Generic Lame-O Signature Follows: Matos, Catherine Anne Moseley http://www.prism.gatech.edu/~cm85 Yes, I love being a graduate student! Really! I mean it!
Response:
I agree with the others. The fact this is responding to antibiotics makes me think it might be an abcess, but some cancers are very aggressive and this might be one of them. Face swelling and tooth displacement indicate something is growing extremely rapidly. Can you call the vet and get an exact name for the diagnosis? I definitely think you need a second opinion. I have some links on feline cancer which might help. Click on the link below and check the articles linked under Cancer: http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Pointe/9352/alphalinks.html – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of > cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of > the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is > malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the > tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if > it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If > we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, > she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without > removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating > symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really > hard on the cat. > She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal > personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor > appears to be the same. > Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
– Tally’s Page Cat Health & Behavior Links, Special Remembrances, Animal Issues & Photos! http://www.tallyville.com
Response:
Beth, Another thing your parents could consider asking a Vet— See if either your Vet (or possibly a new Vet would be the best as Phil suggested) can take a Right Lateral Facial bones x-ray, (include the mandible) and either an AP or PA position of the facial bones, if this has not been done. Tell them to use less technique than they normally would for a skull x-ray. Is the tumor fluid filled, is it solid? (BTW, the *top* of the cat’s head can be held by a tech with a lead apron and special sponges to hold the head in place and someone else can hold the rest of the cat’s body). No need for anesthesia for these two x-rays. This will tell her more of the extent of the growth/tumor and if it has affixed itself to bone. You cannot really tell just by feeling the area, much of this could be swelling. If this is fluid filled, she can use a needle to draw out the fluid and have piece of tissue from the "tumor" site for a biopsy. As Phil mentioned this is the only way to be certain that this is indeed, cancer. BTW, *did* the Vet run any blood work? Please post again and let us know what you have found out. Good luck to all concerned. Sincerely, Karen, Benji and Snoopy
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Cancer does not develop in a week. Fact. Cancer cannot be diagnosed > without biopsy. Fact. Malignancy cannot be determined without > histopathologic examination of tissue. Fact. > The only thing that’s a 99% certainty, is that you need to find a new vet. > I would suggest a complete diagnostic work up at a veterinary university > hospital before you even remotely consider euthanasia. > Don’t mistake "good bedside manners" for competency. To make such a grave > prognosis in the absence of proper diagnostics, is irresponsible bordering > on incompetency. > http://maxshouse.com/cancer.htm > http://maxshouse.com/understanding_cancer.htm > http://maxshouse.com/soft_tissue_sarcomas.htm > Good luck. > Phil. > See original post—- > My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning
Response:
I think you should definitely get a second opinion. A specialist or a University Vet Hospital would be best. What area do you live in? One of the people of the newsgroup is very knowledgeable about Vet Schools. Maybe he can give you a recommendation. Debra Berry – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of > cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of > the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is > malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the > tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if > it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If > we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, > she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without > removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating > symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really > hard on the cat. > She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal > personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor > appears to be the same. > Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
Response:
Personally, I find it kind of odd that a cancerous tumor developed in just a week, and that an antibiotic is helping the cat to feel well, even if his face is still swollen. To me (non-medical though I am) that doesn’t jive with cancer very well. It *sounds* a bit more like some sort of bacterial infection, to my un-educated brain. I also find it odd that the vet wouldn’t do a biopsy right away, to determine just what this tumor is. I’d certainly want to know if it is indeed malignant, or not. If not, then it seems there *has* to be a way to help the cat out. How about seeking a second vet’s opinion? Good luck! Cathy
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of > cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of > the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is > malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the > tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if > it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If > we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, > she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without > removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating > symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really > hard on the cat. > She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal > personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor > appears to be the same. > Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
Response:
Cancer does not develop in a week. Fact. Cancer cannot be diagnosed without biopsy. Fact. Malignancy cannot be determined without histopathologic examination of tissue. Fact. The only thing that’s a 99% certainty, is that you need to find a new vet. I would suggest a complete diagnostic work up at a veterinary university hospital before you even remotely consider euthanasia. Don’t mistake "good bedside manners" for competency. To make such a grave prognosis in the absence of proper diagnostics, is irresponsible bordering on incompetency. http://maxshouse.com/cancer.htm http://maxshouse.com/understanding_cancer.htm http://maxshouse.com/soft_tissue_sarcomas.htm Good luck. Phil. "With the qualities of cleanliness, discretion, affection, patience, dignity, and courage that cats have, how many of us, I ask you, would be capable of being cats?’ –Fernand Mery Feline Healthcare & More: http://maxshouse.com
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of > cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of > the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is > malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the > tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if > it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If > we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, > she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without > removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating > symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really > hard on the cat. > She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal > personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor > appears to be the same. > Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
Response:
My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really hard on the cat. She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor appears to be the same. Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
faro.vcf
< 1K Download
Response:
Beth, I do not have any practical advise for you on this topic. But I wanted to send my sympathies and let you know that Spike and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Please keep us updated on Spike’s situation. Amanda – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of > cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of > the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is > malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the > tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if > it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If > we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, > she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without > removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating > symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really > hard on the cat. > She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal > personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor > appears to be the same. > Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
amandaf.vcf
< 1K Download
Response:
Hi Beth my friend is going thru same thing with her cat he has being recieving chemo for it and it has shrunk almost to nothing. Now my friends cat also has aids and diabetes so totally different cases. But the chemo seems to be working. Just thought I would let you know. Best of Luck and Take Care. My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really hard on the cat. She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor appears to be the same. Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations? faro.vcf (x-vcard attachment) Animals are creatures of God, created by love and kindness, treat them as you would like to be treated.
Response:
> My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of > . . . > She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal > personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor > appears to be the same. > Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
A tumor that large did not develop in one week. Even a very fast growing cancer (e.g., squamous cell carcinoma), takes months to show a noticeable change. In any case, get this cat to another vet ASAP. — JR
Response:
I missed the statement that the "tumor" had developed in just a week! I would have to agree with the others…if the cat was truely "tumor" free a week ago, I would doubt it is cancer. I would be more likely to think it is an infection, absess, or some sort of tooth problem. Definately get a second opinion!! While cancer tumors can double in size very quickly (my mother-in-law had a leg tumor that was growing so fast that she would have lost her leg had she waited an additional week to have it removed), they do not grow as large as you have indicated in such a short time, unless the tumor was already fairly noticable to begin with. I think your vet is missing something in his diagnosis. Catherine, Loki and Freya — Generic Lame-O Signature Follows: Matos, Catherine Anne Moseley http://www.prism.gatech.edu/~cm85 Yes, I love being a graduate student! Really! I mean it!
Response:
I agree with other opinions on the group but I recomend you to see this page: http://www1.geocities.com/HotSprings/1158/animal_cancer.htm Hope it will help. Best regards, Lillian, Maja and Kedi
Response:
My cat had the same thing many years ago, one vet said it was cancer and gave me our options so I took her to another only to find out it was an abcessed tooth. The tooth was pulled,infection drained and she stayed for several days for IV antibiotics and I’m happy to say next month she’ll be seeing her 18th birthday! Please get a second opinion… Sandy
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed >in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of >his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" >positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of >cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of >the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is >malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the >tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if >it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If >we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, >she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without >removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating >symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really >hard on the cat. >She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal >personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor >appears to be the same. >Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
My first cat had what was probably the very same thing. She was around the same age (we had had her for about 9 years, and she was maybe a year old when we got her). My parents had the tumor removed twice, while it was still small, but it kept coming back. This was before radiation for pets was common, so all they did was cut out tissue. This extended her life for maybe a year or so. It sounds like your parents’ cat’s cancer (that is most likely what it is, assuming the vet has ruled out absesses and teeth problems) has progressed too far to cut out the tumor. You can try radiation- it may shrink the tumor enough for it to be cut out, but that is a decision only you and your parents can really make. I would go and talk to a animal onocologist (cancer doctor) to discuss the chances of that suceeding, though. In my cat’s case, the tumor would grow back faster each time…the third time it spread into her nasal cavity, and she would sneeze pieces of something everywhere. I don’t think she was ever in very much pain, though…she continued hunting chipmunks and moles and everything until shortly before we had her put to sleep. That decision was made by my mom, and it is still the hardest thing I have ever done, since I chose to be there as they put her down. My sympathies…I know how hard this must be. Talk with someone who deals with cancer in pets (not just your regular vet), and make the decision on how to proceed from there. And make Spike as happy as can be in the time you have left. Catherine, Loki and Freya — Generic Lame-O Signature Follows: Matos, Catherine Anne Moseley http://www.prism.gatech.edu/~cm85 Yes, I love being a graduate student! Really! I mean it!
Response:
I agree with the others. The fact this is responding to antibiotics makes me think it might be an abcess, but some cancers are very aggressive and this might be one of them. Face swelling and tooth displacement indicate something is growing extremely rapidly. Can you call the vet and get an exact name for the diagnosis? I definitely think you need a second opinion. I have some links on feline cancer which might help. Click on the link below and check the articles linked under Cancer: http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Pointe/9352/alphalinks.html – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of > cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of > the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is > malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the > tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if > it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If > we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, > she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without > removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating > symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really > hard on the cat. > She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal > personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor > appears to be the same. > Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
– Tally’s Page Cat Health & Behavior Links, Special Remembrances, Animal Issues & Photos! http://www.tallyville.com
Response:
Beth, Another thing your parents could consider asking a Vet— See if either your Vet (or possibly a new Vet would be the best as Phil suggested) can take a Right Lateral Facial bones x-ray, (include the mandible) and either an AP or PA position of the facial bones, if this has not been done. Tell them to use less technique than they normally would for a skull x-ray. Is the tumor fluid filled, is it solid? (BTW, the *top* of the cat’s head can be held by a tech with a lead apron and special sponges to hold the head in place and someone else can hold the rest of the cat’s body). No need for anesthesia for these two x-rays. This will tell her more of the extent of the growth/tumor and if it has affixed itself to bone. You cannot really tell just by feeling the area, much of this could be swelling. If this is fluid filled, she can use a needle to draw out the fluid and have piece of tissue from the "tumor" site for a biopsy. As Phil mentioned this is the only way to be certain that this is indeed, cancer. BTW, *did* the Vet run any blood work? Please post again and let us know what you have found out. Good luck to all concerned. Sincerely, Karen, Benji and Snoopy
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Cancer does not develop in a week. Fact. Cancer cannot be diagnosed > without biopsy. Fact. Malignancy cannot be determined without > histopathologic examination of tissue. Fact. > The only thing that’s a 99% certainty, is that you need to find a new vet. > I would suggest a complete diagnostic work up at a veterinary university > hospital before you even remotely consider euthanasia. > Don’t mistake "good bedside manners" for competency. To make such a grave > prognosis in the absence of proper diagnostics, is irresponsible bordering > on incompetency. > http://maxshouse.com/cancer.htm > http://maxshouse.com/understanding_cancer.htm > http://maxshouse.com/soft_tissue_sarcomas.htm > Good luck. > Phil. > See original post—- > My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning
Response:
I think you should definitely get a second opinion. A specialist or a University Vet Hospital would be best. What area do you live in? One of the people of the newsgroup is very knowledgeable about Vet Schools. Maybe he can give you a recommendation. Debra Berry – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of > cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of > the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is > malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the > tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if > it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If > we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, > she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without > removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating > symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really > hard on the cat. > She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal > personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor > appears to be the same. > Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
Response:
Personally, I find it kind of odd that a cancerous tumor developed in just a week, and that an antibiotic is helping the cat to feel well, even if his face is still swollen. To me (non-medical though I am) that doesn’t jive with cancer very well. It *sounds* a bit more like some sort of bacterial infection, to my un-educated brain. I also find it odd that the vet wouldn’t do a biopsy right away, to determine just what this tumor is. I’d certainly want to know if it is indeed malignant, or not. If not, then it seems there *has* to be a way to help the cat out. How about seeking a second vet’s opinion? Good luck! Cathy
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of > cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of > the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is > malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the > tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if > it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If > we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, > she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without > removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating > symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really > hard on the cat. > She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal > personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor > appears to be the same. > Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
Response:
Cancer does not develop in a week. Fact. Cancer cannot be diagnosed without biopsy. Fact. Malignancy cannot be determined without histopathologic examination of tissue. Fact. The only thing that’s a 99% certainty, is that you need to find a new vet. I would suggest a complete diagnostic work up at a veterinary university hospital before you even remotely consider euthanasia. Don’t mistake "good bedside manners" for competency. To make such a grave prognosis in the absence of proper diagnostics, is irresponsible bordering on incompetency. http://maxshouse.com/cancer.htm http://maxshouse.com/understanding_cancer.htm http://maxshouse.com/soft_tissue_sarcomas.htm Good luck. Phil. "With the qualities of cleanliness, discretion, affection, patience, dignity, and courage that cats have, how many of us, I ask you, would be capable of being cats?’ –Fernand Mery Feline Healthcare & More: http://maxshouse.com
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of > cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of > the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is > malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the > tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if > it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If > we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, > she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without > removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating > symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really > hard on the cat. > She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal > personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor > appears to be the same. > Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
Response:
My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really hard on the cat. She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor appears to be the same. Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
faro.vcf
< 1K Download
Response:
Beth, I do not have any practical advise for you on this topic. But I wanted to send my sympathies and let you know that Spike and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Please keep us updated on Spike’s situation. Amanda – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > My parents cat developed a tumor on its right upper gum. It developed > in just one week. The entire right side of his face is swollen. One of > his teeth has been pushed out, perpendicular to the "normal" > positioning. Spike has been to the vet. She believes it is a form of > cancer, somewhat common in cats (my father does not recall the name of > the cancer) The vet is 99% sure it is a tumor and that it is > malignant. Spike is 11 years old. Due to his age and the fact that the > tumor has apparently spread through much of his face, she recommends (if > it were her cat) keeping him comfortable, with eventual euthanasia. If > we wanted her to perform a biopsy, she would. But even if it is benign, > she feels that a surgeon would not be able to remove the growth without > removing 1/2 of his face. Radiation is a possibility (for alleviating > symptoms, not a cure). The vet believes the radiation would be really > hard on the cat. > She prescribed antibiotics which seem to have brought his normal > personality and playfulness back. It has been about a week. The tumor > appears to be the same. > Has anyone heard of this? Any recommendations?
amandaf.vcf
< 1K Download
Response:
Related Posts