November is National Pet Cancer Awareness Month
Cancer affects pets much like it does people, and spotting small changes early can make a meaningful difference in outcomes. At Rocklin Ranch Veterinary Hospital + Urgent Care, November’s National Pet Cancer Awareness Month is a timely reminder to learn the signs, schedule wellness checks, and ask questions about screening options so your dog or cat gets care without delay.
Why Awareness Matters
Pet cancer can develop quietly at first. Subtle shifts, like less enthusiasm for walks, picky eating, or sleeping more, are easy to dismiss as “just getting older.” Yet early detection often allows for more treatment choices and better comfort. Routine exams, baseline bloodwork, and discussing any new behaviors help your veterinary team catch concerns before they escalate.
Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Every pet ages differently, but certain changes warrant a prompt veterinary visit. Track patterns that persist for more than a day or two, and bring photos or notes to your appointment. Do not ignore signs like:
- Rapid weight loss or unexplained weight gain
- Severe lethargy or a marked decline in activity and play
- Enlarged or changing lumps and bumps anywhere on the body
- Persistent cough, labored breathing, or exercise intolerance
Increased thirst or urination, house-soiling, or new nighttime restlessness
Vomiting, diarrhea, appetite loss, or signs of pain (hiding, limping, vocalizing)
If you notice one or more of these, don’t wait. A timely exam helps rule out emergencies and guides next steps, whether that’s monitoring, additional testing, or starting treatment.
Common Cancers and How We Screen
Dogs and cats can develop many tumor types; lymphoma, mast cell tumors, and soft tissue sarcomas are among those veterinarians see frequently. Screening begins with a thorough nose-to-tail exam to assess skin, lymph nodes, abdomen, oral cavity, and more. Your veterinarian may recommend:
- Diagnostics: Bloodwork, urinalysis, and blood pressure measurements to evaluate organ function.
- Imaging: X-rays or ultrasound to visualize the chest and abdomen or to map a mass before removal.
- Cytology/biopsy: A fine-needle aspirate (small cell sample) or tissue biopsy to determine if a lump is benign or malignant.
At Rocklin Ranch Veterinary Hospital + Urgent Care, your team will create a plan that fits your pet’s age, medical history, and exam findings, with clear explanations at every step.
What You Can Do at Home
Your daily observations are powerful. Partnering with your care team starts with a few simple habits.
- Do monthly “home checks.” Run your hands over your pet to note any enlarged or changing lumps and bumps; peek at gums, check breathing at rest, and watch energy and appetite.
- Keep a health journal. Short notes or phone photos make it easier to show trends, such as rapid weight loss or severe lethargy.
- Stay current on wellness care. Senior pets benefit from more frequent exams and recommended screening, so early detection is possible.
- Ask about nutrition and comfort. Diet adjustments, pain relief, and environmental tweaks can support quality of life during diagnosis or treatment.
These small actions help your veterinarian move quickly and precisely if something seems off.
The Bottom Line
Pet cancer is a serious diagnosis, but knowledge and vigilance put you in your pet’s corner. Paying attention to subtle changes—and scheduling an exam when something doesn’t seem right—opens the door to earlier answers and compassionate care.
Contact us at our Plaza Drive location at (916) 624-7387 or the Pacific Street location at (916) 624-3322 to schedule an appointment. We’ll guide you through the next steps and support your pet with thoughtful, evidence-based care.