Feline Skin Cancer

[mssamjan]

My 17 year old cat, Joey, had a scab on his ear for quite awhile. He overheard me say that I was going to make a vet appointment and promptly went in the other room and knocked the scab off himself. The scab has changed in size and shape--I think partially because of the scab coming off. I took him to the vet today. She did not do a biopsy but felt it was cancer and wants to amputate his ear.

I have tremendous reservations about doing this to a 17 year old cat who is eating and jumping fences and having a pretty good life...has anyone heard of other treatments that are not quite so radical? I'd appreciate any thoughts you might have. He does not seem bothered by it...chest x-ray came out fine. Will get other bloodwork back tomorrow.

Thanks.
Jan

[Catty1]

My only concern would be the effect the anesthetic would have on him, but from what you say he is really healthy otherwise.

I think if the cancer is localized, removing the ear is best. He certainly would look different...but it is not as drastic as having a leg or tail amputated.

You don't want it to spread and cause him more trouble!

I would also think that keeping oil and q tips handy afterwards would be good, as it might need cleaning.

These things are so often more traumatic for us meowmies than for our furkids! Hard to tell what is best for them versus what is best for us!

I know you will make the right decision, whatever it is.

HUGS HUGS HUGS

Catty1

[TopCat3]

Tough, tough decision. I don't know what I'd do. I certainly wouldn't attempt to advise you. (Sorry) I hope you come to a decision you can all be comfortable with. Take your time and ask your kitty and listen to what he says in your heart, is all I can say. I wish you the best.

[mssamjan]

Thanks for your wise and kind words.

Jan

[Laura's Babies]

Gee, the first reaction would be to want to be rid of the cancer! MY fear would be that it is so close to the brain... Go with your heart and do what is best for HIM!

[Lizzie]

It's not unusual for cats to get sun burn on their ears and that can lead to skin cancer. If he was my cat, I'd ask for a biopsy right away. I wouldn't be able to leave it and hope for the best. People with skin cancer can be otherwise healthy but it's still something that needs to be removed. Good luck!