- e-Vet ALERT: Possible Spring Pet Injuries
- We have lost two special animals this past month
- e-Vet ALERT: Valentine dangers to your pet – roses, lilies, raisins, chocolate and more.
- $5 provides a box of Valentine’s cookies for a dog, or a box of heart-shaped treats for a cat
- e-Vet ALERT: Beware Ibuprofen in Dogs
I have a question about…thymoma in cats
Our 10 yr old male cat was diagnosed with thymoma, a benign mass, several months ago. We visited a specialty vet clinic and discussed surgery. We have been reluctant thus far because it is such an invasive surgery. The cat acts like himself; appetite is great, plays with his sister and interacts as usual with our family. I don’t know about how quickly thymomas grow, and how cats do post surgically. Your input would be greatly appreciated. We would love for him to live a full life.
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Thymoma is a type of cancer which results in a tumor on the thymus gland. Your thymus gland is located underneath the breastbone near your lungs and it helps to regulate your immune system. Thymoma can affect humans as well as animals like cats. However, according to the Veterinary Society of Surgical Oncology (VSSO), feline thymoma is rare. Thymoma in cats is also treatable when caught early.
There are two types of feline thymoma: invasive and non-invasive. Invasive thymoma can cause the tumors on the thymus gland to spread to other organs, such as the lungs. A tumor that does not metastasize indicates non-invasive thymoma. The VSSO reports that at least 50 percent of feline thymoma cases are non-invasive. A biopsy of the thymus gland is performed and tested to determine whether the tumor is invasive or not. The most common symptom in feline thymoma is breathing difficulties. These can be characterized by coughing, wheezing, and choking. Other symptoms may include weight loss and an inability to walk. Treatment for feline thymoma includes radiation therapy, chemotherapy or surgery. For a full life I would recommend pursuing treatment.
My cat seems to have the Thmoma.
I noticed he was having hard time breathing, suddenly so took him to vet. My vet extracted much pinkish fluid.
They tested the fuild in the lab, took ultrasound, CT sccan, still cannot determmine it is thymoma or pymphoma…it is bit frustrated.
I am crossing my fingers that is a non invasive Thymoma, the surgen will take a look at the CT scann and determine if it is surgically removable or not…waiting more of the results.
Just for the benefit of any others who have a cat diagnosed with a thymoma. My British Shorthair was diagnosed at the age of 7 after developing a severe cough. The tumour was non-invasive but was 3 times the size of his heart and was squashing his lungs and oesophagus. Surgery was 100% successful. His recovery was dramatic and is still leading a full and active life two years later.