Stomach and Intestinal Cancer (Leiomyosarcoma) in Cats

Leiomyosarcoma is an uncommon cancerous tumour that is an extremely serious and painful disease.

This cancer has a tendency to metastasize to other areas in the gastrointestinal tract and other body organs.

RISK FACTORS FOR LEIOMYOSARCOMA

This cancer affects mostly older cats (older than six years). All breeds are equally susceptible to leiomyosarcoma.

SYMPTOMS OF LEIOMYOSARCOMA

Leiomyosarcoma in cats is a silent killer because it often goes undetected.

A cat with stomach cancer rarely shows symptoms and therefore, its diagnosis and treatment are difficult.

Some of the signs of this cancer are also symptoms of common stomach disorders, which makes diagnosis even more difficult.

Most symptoms are related to the gastrointestinal tract and may include:

• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy and weakness
• Diarrhoea
• Weight loss
• Breathing problems
• Frequent stomach problems
• Blood in stool
• Gas
• Growling or rumbling sounds in stomach
• Feeling of incomplete defecation 
• Weight loss
• Limping

Treatment usually depends on the stage of cancer. When surgery is indicated, it usually involves removal of the tumour mass along with some normal tissue.

Post-operative pain and inflammation following biopsy or surgery can be reduced.