In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. MacKenzie Pellin discuss the cancer rates in dogs and cats, the types of cancer we tend to see in our four-legged friends, and the challenges of diagnosing cancer in pets. Dr. Pellin also breaks down some of the main differences of cancer in breeds of dogs and cats, and the reasons why those types of cancer are more common based on the pet’s structure. Finally, Dr. Pellin emphasizes the importance of routine veterinary care and early detection for your pets.

Key Takeaways:

• Dogs and humans are diagnosed with cancer at about the same rate - about 25% over their life, with about 50% at geriatric ages. About ⅓ of all cats will be diagnosed with cancer throughout their lifetime.

• Large and giant breed dogs are more predisposed to bone cancer. Dogs with long noses are more likely to get nasal tumors. Snub-nosed dogs are more likely to have tumors in their heart space.

• In cats, certain types of viruses, like FIV of FeLV can be transmitted to other cats, which can then mutate into cancer. These seem species-specific and cannot be transmitted to other species like dogs or humans.

• Monitor your dog or cat’s habits enough that you can tell when things change. You know them, you know their habits, trust your gut, and take them in if things seem unusual.

"Be aware of your animal's habits, and if things start to change, pay attention to that and take them into your clinic for a checkup." — Dr. MacKenzie Pellin

Connect with Dr. MacKenzie Pellin:

Professional Bio: https://www.vetmed.wisc.edu/people/mackenzie-pellin/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mackenzie-pellin-962a66b6/

Connect with Therese:

Website: www.criticallyspeaking.net

Threads: @critically_speaking

Email: theresemarkow@criticallyspeaking.net

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