Cancer in Avian and Exotic Pets

Detecting and Treating Pet Cancer

Cancer is one of the dreaded diseases that affects humans and pets alike. Unfortunately, birds, rabbits and other exotic pets can suffer from cancer-related diseases, too.

Unlike dogs and cats that can show symptoms in the early stages, rabbits and birds may not show signs of the disease until the cancer has spread.

Therefore, any change in behavior, eating patterns or repeated diarrhea, vomiting or fatigue should be reported to your veterinarian immediately.

Lymphosarcoma Seen In Pets

Lymphosarcoma is the most common tumor of guinea pigs, rabbits, ferrets, pot-bellied pigs and similar exotic pets. And just as with humans, the best way to detect this cancer in pets is to regularly feel for lumps, bumps or swellings.

Unlike humans, who suffer from multiple chemotherapy side effects, rabbits, guinea pigs, pot-bellied pigs and such don’t have as many problems. For instance, most small animals don’t have major weight loss and don’t lose their hair following treatments. However, if they are in the advanced stages they can undergo a loss of appetite.

Pet Cancer Treatment Options

Many birds and exotic pets diagnosed with cancer usually have three treatment options:

• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy

Cancer treatments for exotic pets have advanced rapidly in the last decade.

Pet Cancer Symptoms

If your pet shows any of the ten common signs of cancer, immediately contact your veterinarian.

• Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow
• Sores that do not heal
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Bleeding or discharge from any body opening
• Offensive odor
• Difficulty eating or swallowing
• Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina
• Persistent lameness or stiffness
• Difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating 

Bring your exotic pet to your veterinarian for regular visits to be sure they are maintaining good health. 

If you'd like to be reimbursed for your visits, click here to check out Nationwide pet insurance's Avian and Exotic plans to find a coverage option that works for you.