Mammary Tumors in Cats

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                      General Information



Mammary tumors are very common in cats.  About 80% are cancerous.

Siamese cats tend to have more cancerous mammary tumors than

other cats.



Mammary tumors are more frequent in cats over 9 years of age,

but they have appeared in cats as young as 9 months.  Spayed cats

are less likely to develop mammary tumors.  Though the cause of

these tumors is unknown, researchers suspect a hormonal

influence.



Early and complete surgical removal of the mammary glands and

associated lymphatics offers the best chance for complete

recovery.  The larger the tumor at the time of removal, the

greater are the chances of recurrence or spread.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Surgical removal of the tumor is the treatment of choice.

    Age and general health of the patient govern the decision

    regarding which treatment is best for your pet.



2.  Radiographs (x-rays) may be necessary to determine whether

    the tumor has spread to other parts of the body.



3.  A biopsy (tissue sample) may be submitted to a pathologist to

    determine whether the tumor is cancerous.



4.  Laboratory tests may be required to determine whether your

    cat requires supportive therapy before or during surgery.



    Recommendations: