How Long Can cats live on chemo?
In general, says Margaret McEntee, DVM, a professor of oncology at Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, “We don’t think of feline lymphoma as a curable condition. Even with chemotherapy, survival time will typically be on the order of six months or so, although some cats may survive for a year or more.”
What kind of chemotherapy does a cat need for lymphoma?
Chemotherapy for low-grade lymphoma usually involves tablets, whilst high grade lymphoma is more likely to require injectable chemotherapy. Cats tolerate chemotherapy very well and don’t suffer too badly with side effects- they rarely lose their hair or appear sick, but some will get mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Can a cat go into remission from lymphoma?
If your cat is diagnosed with low grade lymphoma and they are in generally good health, they can typically go into remission with the use of chemotherapy or surgical revision. Your cat can never be cured of lymphoma, but may experience remission for up to 4 years.
Which is better low grade or high grade lymphoma in cats?
This determination is based on how rapidly the cancer cells appear to be dividing and how malignant the cells appear to be; high-grade lymphoma is fast-growing and more malignant. Low-grade lymphoma, in cats, is more likely to respond to chemotherapy and chemotherapy often results in longer periods of remission.
What are the side effects of chemotherapy for cats?
Cats tolerate chemotherapy much better than humans; they rarely lose their hair or appear sick. The most common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. However, even these effects are seen in only about 10% of patients.
What kind of treatment do cats get for lymphoma?
Chemotherapy is the most common lymphoma treatment plan in cats, as it can help to kill all cancer cells including those not in the main location of the tumour. Chemotherapy for low-grade lymphoma usually involves tablets, whilst high grade lymphoma is more likely to require injectable chemotherapy.
What kind of chemotherapy can I give my Cat?
Several drug options are depending on the type of cancer the cat has. Chemotherapy may be administered as single-agent chemotherapy (one type of drug is used) or multi-agent chemotherapy where a combination of chemotherapy drugs are used.
How long can a cat live with chemo?
In fact, just like with humans, treatment is often possible, and chemotherapy may be one option that can allow your cat to live comfortably for many months and even years. How does chemotherapy work?
What kind of cancer can a cat have?
Chemotherapy is typically used for cancers that affect multiple sites. Lymphoma is the most common form of feline cancer that is treated with chemotherapy. The drugs used in veterinary chemotherapy are frequently the same drugs used in human medicine. Most cats tolerate chemotherapy well.