Feline Cancer Awareness Checklist

Feline Cancer Awareness Checklist

Brunswick Animal Hospital – Normal, IL

Brunswick Animal Hospital in Normal, IL is pleased to provide this feline cancer awareness checklist.  It applies to cats of all ages, but is especially important for our senior cats.  Cat owner’s vigilance and awareness of the signs of feline cancer can lead to early detection, which can make all the difference in treatment outcomes and their cat’s quality of life.  If you have any questions about the symptoms or wish to have your cat examined by us, please call us to schedule an exam. Visit our Feline Cancer Awareness article for more information

Monthly At-Home Examination

Gently feel your cat’s entire body for lumps, bumps, or swelling
Pay special attention to mammary tissue (check all nipples in both males and females)
Check inside your cat’s mouth for growths, redness, or discoloration
Examine your cat’s ears, nose, and eyelids for sores or crusty areas (especially in white cats)
Look for asymmetry in face, limbs, or body
Monitor your cat’s eating habits and appetite for changes. Call us immediately if your cat stops eating
Note any weight changes (weigh monthly if possible) and discuss your cat’s weight changes at your next appointment with us
Observe litter box habits for blood, straining, or frequency changes
Watch for vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours — call us if this occurs
Check for wounds or sores that don’t heal within a week
Note energy levels and behavior changes
Monitor breathing for effort, rapidity, or open-mouth breathing
Assess grooming habits (decreased grooming can indicate illness)

Regular Veterinary Care

All cats should have an annual feline wellness exam
Senior cats (7–10+ years) need a bi-annual feline wellness exam
Ensure physical exam includes oral examination and palpation of lymph nodes
Discuss appropriate blood work based on age and risk factors
Request FeLV/FIV testing if status is unknown
Keep vaccinations current per veterinary recommendations
Schedule professional dental cleanings as recommended
Report any changes you’ve noticed since the last visit
Ask about senior screenings for cats 7+

Prevention and Risk Reduction

Spay female cats before one year of age
Keep cats indoors to prevent viral infections and sun exposure
Protect white or light-colored cats from sun exposure
Maintain a smoke-free environment
Feed high-quality, age-appropriate nutrition
Maintain a healthy weight through diet and play
Minimize exposure to chemicals and household toxins
Consider pet insurance early in life
Test new cats for FeLV/FIV before introductions

For White or Light-Colored Cats

Keep them indoors or significantly limit outdoor time
Apply pet-safe sunscreen to ears and nose if outdoors
Examine ear tips, nose, and eyelids weekly
Consider UV-protective window film
Schedule immediate vet visit for crusty or non-healing areas
Photograph ear tips and nose monthly to track changes

If You Notice Something Concerning

Document findings with photos and notes
Record when you first noticed the change
Note progression or additional symptoms
Schedule a veterinary appointment promptly
Prepare a list of questions
Bring previous medical records
Follow recommended diagnostic testing
Request specialist referral if needed

For Cats at Higher Risk

Increase exam frequency (bi-annual or more)
Discuss screening protocols
Monitor weight monthly
Watch closely for early warning signs
Keep detailed health records
Ask about comprehensive blood work
Discuss preventive strategies

For Cats Diagnosed with Cancer

Request clear explanation of diagnosis and prognosis
Discuss treatment options and expectations
Discuss costs and payment options
Request oncology referral
Ask about clinical trials
Explore palliative care and pain management
Review insurance coverage
Create a low-stress home environment
Maintain familiar routines
Keep a symptom journal
Attend follow-up appointments
Join a support group
Prioritize quality of life
Discuss quality-of-life concerns openly

Important Reminders

Save our phone number
Know location/hours of nearest emergency clinic
Keep a feline first aid kit
Take regular photos of your cat
Trust your instincts
Don’t feel guilty—cats hide illness
Ask questions anytime
Seek support when needed

Remember: Early detection saves cat’s lives. Regular veterinary care combined with attentive home monitoring gives your cat the best chance for a long, healthy life. Any unexplained change that persists for more than a few days deserves veterinary attention.  Please call us if you have any questions or concerns about your cat.