Pet Health: What You Need to Know

Things To Know About Squamous Cell Carcinoma In Cats

23 August 2023

Connor Hawkins

As a cat owner, it's very upsetting to see a marking on your pet's body that you believe may be cancer. You must take your cat to a local animal hospital right away if you see any blemishes that are consistent with cancer. Certain cancers can be very aggressive, and catching them early so that a veterinarian can promptly begin treating this disease is the best way to save your cat's life. One such cancer is called squamous cell carcinoma, and it's a type that many cats can develop. Here are some important things for you to know about this type of cancer, which commonly occurs as a result of sun exposure.

At-Risk Cats

All cats have the potential to develop this type of cancer, but cats that are light in color are often most at risk of suffering from squamous cell carcinoma. If your cat has white fur, tan fur, or fur in another light shade, it probably has a higher probability of developing squamous cell carcinoma than a cat that is black, dark gray, or dark brown. Similarly, if your cat has thin fur in certain areas of its body or even bald patches, you should especially be vigilant for the warning signs of this dangerous type of cancer. Cats that spend time outdoors are more at risk than indoor cats.

Common Locations

There are several locations on a cat's body where there's a higher risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma. In general, places where there is little to no hair are more susceptible. For example, most cats that get this type of cancer have it on their noses or around their eyes. You might also see it in locations such as the tips of the ears and the toes. If your cat has a bald patch in its fur for any reason, this area could be susceptible to this type of cancer.

Appearance

A squamous cell carcinoma blemish on the body of your cat often looks like a scab. Initially, you might think that the animal has some type of small injury that has caused this blemish. Like many types of skin cancers, these blemishes will often have irregular margins. They can sometimes release blood or discharge, particularly if your cat scratches at them. In certain cases, the markings can disappear and then reappear in the same location. If you believe that your cat could have squamous cell carcinoma, contact a pet hospital quickly.

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