I could really use some advice and maybe a bit of a reality check. My sweet cat, Lola, has been diagnosed with mammary cancer, and it's been an emotional rollercoaster for us. The vet mentioned that one option is to remove one side of her mammary chain without going through chemotherapy. I'm really torn about what to do. On one hand, I want to give her the best chance at a happy and long life, but on the other, I fear the stress and recovery from such a procedure might be too much for her. She's always been a bit of a shy and sensitive soul, and I hate to put her through anything that might not give her a good quality of life. Has anyone been through something similar or have any insights on whether opting for surgery without chemo could help her in the long run? Any thoughts would really be appreciated. Thank you!
Hello! I'm sorry to hear about your concerns regarding your cat's health. Feline mammary cancer can indeed be worrying, but let's break it down together.
Removing a single mammary chain, a procedure known as a unilateral mastectomy, is often an important step in managing mammary tumors in cats. This surgery can help minimize the risk of the cancer spreading. However, whether your cat should also undergo chemotherapy depends on several factors, like the size of the tumor, its histological grade, and whether it has spread to other areas, such as lymph nodes or lungs.
While chemotherapy might seem daunting, it's important to consider it as it can help in targeting any residual cancer cells and potentially reduce the risk of recurrence. It's crucial to discuss this thoroughly with your vet, considering your cat's overall health and quality of life.
Post-surgery, keeping an eye on the surgical site for any signs of infection, like redness, swelling, or discharge, is important. Also, monitor your cat for any changes in appetite, behavior, or signs of discomfort, which might indicate complications.
To get tailored advice for your cat's specific situation, I would highly recommend scheduling a video consult with us at Dial A Vet. We can go over all your options and help you make the best decision for your furry friend. Take care!
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