Not every lump, bump, or behavior change means cancer—but some of them do. And because our pets can’t speak up, early signs often go unnoticed or are mistaken for normal aging. At Killarney Animal Hospital, we’ve seen how catching cancer early can significantly improve outcomes. That’s why it’s so important to know what to look for—especially when the signs don’t seem obvious.
Subtle Behavioral Changes That Deserve a Second Look
One of the most commonly overlooked signs of cancer is a change in behavior. It might not seem like a big deal at first—maybe your dog is less excited about walks, or your cat doesn’t jump on the windowsill as often. But gradual changes can signal discomfort or underlying illness. Things to watch for include:
- Loss of interest in play or routines
- Unusual aggression or irritability
- Excessive sleeping or hiding
- Reduced appetite or finicky eating
- Reluctance to be touched in certain areas
These shifts in behavior are easy to chalk up to aging, especially in senior pets, but they may actually be early signs of something more serious.
Lumps and Bumps: When to Be Concerned
It’s easy to dismiss a new lump as a fatty deposit or “just a cyst,” especially in older dogs. But not all masses are harmless. While many growths are benign, others can be malignant—and there’s no way to know for sure without a veterinary exam and testing.
If you notice:
- A lump that’s growing quickly
- A bump that feels firm, irregular, or fixed in place
- Sores that don’t heal
- Bleeding from the nose, mouth, or other openings
…it’s time to get it checked. At Killarney Animal Hospital, we offer in-house diagnostic tools like fine-needle aspiration and biopsy to determine if a growth is benign or something that needs immediate attention.
Changes in Weight Without Trying
Sudden weight loss—especially if your pet’s diet and exercise habits haven’t changed—is often an early sign of cancer. This is particularly common in internal cancers that aren’t visible on the surface, like those affecting the liver, spleen, or gastrointestinal tract.
On the flip side, unexplained weight gain or abdominal swelling may indicate a mass or fluid buildup related to a tumor. Any significant weight fluctuation is worth a veterinary visit.
Persistent Coughing, Sneezing, or Difficulty Breathing
Chronic respiratory symptoms aren’t always caused by allergies or infections. Tumors in the lungs, throat, or nasal passages can cause:
- Ongoing coughing that doesn’t resolve with antibiotics
- Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing
- Nasal discharge, sometimes with blood
Don’t ignore these symptoms, especially if they linger longer than a week or two.
Changes in Bathroom Habits
Subtle changes in urination or bowel movements can also signal trouble. Watch for:
- Straining to urinate or defecate
- Blood in urine or stool
- Incontinence in pets who were previously house-trained
- Diarrhea or constipation lasting more than a few days
These signs can indicate tumors in the bladder, intestines, or other internal organs—and should never be ignored.
Why Routine Check-Ups Matter More Than You Think
The earlier cancer is detected, the more options we have to treat or manage it. That’s why regular wellness exams are so important, even if your pet seems perfectly healthy. At Killarney Animal Hospital, we recommend annual (or semi-annual for senior pets) checkups that include full physical exams and, when necessary, diagnostic screenings.
Our team is trained to spot the subtle signs you might miss at home—and we take time to explain every finding so you know what’s going on and what steps to take next.
Trust Your Gut—And Don’t Wait
You know your pet best. If something feels off, even if you can’t quite explain it, it’s always better to check. Waiting too long can mean fewer options and a tougher road ahead.
If you’re concerned about any unusual symptoms or changes in your pet, call Killarney Animal Hospital at 604-433-5500 to book an exam. Early action can save lives—and we’re here to help every step of the way.
