Knowing canine lymphoma symptoms is the first step to diagnosing the lymphom in dogs. Early treatment is necessary for canine lymphoma as untreated dogs can live 4-6 weeks only. Discover how immune system adjunct therapy can help in the treatment of canine lymphoma.
Canine lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects lymphocytes in dogs. As lymphocystes are part of the immune system, lymphoma can be present in many parts of a dog's body. These areas include the spleen, liver, bone marrow, lymph nodes, eyes, skin, liver and gastrointestinal tract.
The cause of canine lymphoma is not known. Several possible causes include genetic or environmental factors. Canine lymphoma is particularly prevalent in certain breeds such as Golden Retrievers, Basset Hounds, Boxers, Bulldogs, German Shepherds and Poodles. Middle aged dogs are more susceptible to developing canine lymphoma.
Recognising Canine Lymphoma Symptoms
Since canine lymphoma is an aggressive type of cancer, knowing the symptoms can alert you, the pet owner, to seek early diagnosis and treatment for your dog.
Some of the canine lymphoma symptoms are general while others are specific to where in the body the tumors develop.
- Fever
Fever is a general symptom of many illnesses. If a fever lasts for more than three days, there is generally a reason to be concerned. There are usually other visible canine lymphoma symptoms that accompanied fever.
- Hair or fur loss
This is present in cutaneous lymphoma that affects the skin. The development of lesions on the skin is accompanied by loss of hair, redness and itching.
- Apparent lack of energy
Many dogs with this type of cancer may exhibit lackluster behavior. They may no longer be playful or become excited about any type of activity, even those they previously enjoyed. Exhibiting signs of depression could point to a serious health problem.
- Loss of appetite
This is a general canine lymphoma symptom. When ill, most dogs tend to eat less or not at all. Any sudden change in eating pattern should always be taken seriously.
While they eat less, the dog may start drinking more which results in increased frequency of urination.
- Lumps or Swelling
This is one of the more revealing symptoms of canine lymphoma. Multicentric lymphoma that affects the lymph nodes account for at least 80% of canine lymphoma. Swollen lymph nodes are visible on the neck, mouth, groin, front legs, abdomen and back. They are firm, painless and grow to a large size very quickly.
- Vomiting and diarrhea
These are common signs in dogs with alimentary canine lymphoma that affects the gastrointestinal tract.
- Weight Loss
This is primary linked to the loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea associated with alimentary canine lymphoma (gastroinstestinal lymphoma).
If your dog displays one or some of the above symptoms, consult your veterinarian immediately. The life expectancy for untreated dogs is 4-6 weeks. The primary and most effective treatment for canine lymphoma is chemotherapy. Other types of treatment are surgery and radiation therapy. The prognosis for dogs with lymphoma is determined by the type and stage of lymphoma, and whether the cancer has metastasised to other organs in the body.
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