{"id":661697,"date":"2024-10-09T03:11:54","date_gmt":"2024-10-09T07:11:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.catster.com\/?p=661697"},"modified":"2024-11-04T08:35:46","modified_gmt":"2024-11-04T13:35:46","slug":"feline-oral-squamous-cell-carcinoma","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.catster.com\/ask-the-vet\/feline-oral-squamous-cell-carcinoma\/","title":{"rendered":"Feline Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Our Vet Explains the Causes, Signs & Care"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\n <\/span>\n \nOverview<\/a>
\nSigns<\/a>
\nCauses<\/a>
\nDiagnosis<\/a>
\nCare Guide<\/a>
\nFAQ<\/a>
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Feline oral squamous cell carcinoma is an invasive type of cancer. Affected cats tend to have pain associated with the tumor and may be disinclined to eat. Let’s look at some signs of squamous cell carcinoma and what treatment options might be available for your cat.<\/p>\n

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What Is Feline Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma?<\/h2>\n

Feline oral squamous cell carcinoma is a malignant cancer that tends to be locally invasive. It typically starts in the tissues of your cat’s mouth, but it can spread further, even into the bone. Common areas where squamous cell carcinoma occurs are the gums and palate.<\/p>\n

This cancer is the most commonly diagnosed oral cancer in cats. It may be found incidentally during a routine exam or dental cleaning. Squamous cell carcinoma can spread to other areas of the body, such as the lymph nodes and lungs. If your veterinarian suspects squamous cell carcinoma, they should palpate your cat’s lymph nodes and take radiographs (X-rays) of the cat’s chest to look for metastasis.<\/p>\n

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What Are the Signs of Feline Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma?<\/h2>\n

Cats with an oral tumor often develop trouble eating. The tumor can cause pain, but it can also interfere with your cat’s ability to chew. You might see your cat go to the food bowl but refuse to eat.<\/p>\n

Signs you might see at home with oral squamous cell carcinoma in cats include:<\/p>\n

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