Radiation Treatment

[kitty51]

Hi Everyone!! Has anybody had an experience with radiation treatment for cancer in cats?My vet has given the bad news,Heidi my cat had freeze burn done today on her nose,but he called and sid that it looks as though its aggressive skin cancer.The only option left is the radiation.Im not so sure I want to put her through that,does anyone know if it painful/successful?She is very healthy and active apart from this problem.When I pick her up tonight I will have to have composure,its there anyone here that can suggest how I can do this,need all the help i can get,i need someone that will be tough on me...........

[zodiacqueen]

Glad that you asked about the biopsy!  Now, that I think about it, the vet was probably very hesitant to cut in such a sensitive area.  That makes sense!!  It also makes sense that if your cat responded to that treatment, then that would make it an obvious diagnosis.  But, hey, that's really awesome that she responded well!!  Was it some sort of cream or pill that the vet's got her on?  I'm going to guess that it's a cream.  That's how they treat some skin cancers in people.  Have ya thought about the radiation?  Does your vet think the cancer will respond well to it?  If you decide not to go through with the radiation, at least ya know that the treatment you've already used works.  That's a major plus, and since she's responding to it and seems happy and content, then I would bet ya she's got plenty of quality time left!  Keep that chin up, and stay positive.

If you need us, we're here, if you have any more questions or concerns!

Staci  

[kitty51]

I asked about the biopsy,and he said hes 99% positive and to take a piece out of her nose when its in the condition that it is it wont heal so well,anyway I took her back last friday and the cancer has slowed down,and puss is a lot happier now and getting used to the idea of being inside on sunny days.So I think she will make it to her 16 birthday!!
So ZQ either way she is on the improve and thanks for getting me to ask about a biopsy.
Oh yeah,he said that if it wasnt skin cancer she would not have responded to the type of medicine that he gave her.So does that sound fessable??

[zodiacqueen]

I am glad that the freeze-burn worked so well.  But, if there was no biopsy then you do not know if it truly is a cancer.  You can't go by site alone to know whether it's a cancer or not.  If this vet was truly a vet with experience for a long long time, then he should know better than to tell you that it's cancer without doing the biopsy.  I don't understand why he didn't suggest the biopsy?  He suggested radiation without doing the biopsy??

[kitty51]

No biopsy,this vet ahs been around for a long long time and he dedicated,also the she had the freeze burn done and  the vet said that he is surprised how  well  it worked,so maybe theres hope after all.

[zodiacqueen]

I will ask this question once again.  Did you have a biopsy done?  You do not know if it's skin cancer UNLESS you get the biopsy done.

So, if the biopsy was NOT done, then this would mean that your vet is only making a guess?  Am I correct?  Would you agree?  Then, in other words, this definition is called ASSUMING.

By the way, Your welcome

[kitty51]

Heidi doesnt have a tumor,its skin cancer,and this vet is caring and kind,he spoke to me on the phone for sometime,and I should be greatful that she is almost 16 years old,but you wouldnt think so to look at her.Her general health is good and she is still bossing the dogs around,and has a hearty appetite,thats what makes it so sad for me,shes not acting sick at all.I have to take her back on friday.

[PrettyKitty1]

I do agree with ZQ. I honestly hope her cancer isn't aggessive. Radiation or any other treatment is stressful for any cat; but if it means it'll prolong your cat's life and she will have a good quality of life then I'd personally go for it.

I'm sorry you are going through this. I really hope your kitty gets out of this soon.

Hugs!

[zodiacqueen]

Hi, is your vet ASSUMING that your cat has an aggressive skin cancer or has a CONFIRMING biopsy report proved that it actually is cancer?  This is very important that it be proven.  I don't know about you, but I'd certainly want undeniable proof.  The biopsy is very very important.  You need to know exactly what you're dealing with.  There are many tumors that are non cancerous skin tumors in animals, including melanomas.  I looked skin tumors in animals before and was actually shocked that some melanomas are actually not malignant in cats.  Melanomas in humans, we all know, are always malignant.

If, once the biopsy is done, and it's confirmed that it is cancer.  Then, if this was me, I'd think about how old my cat is, other health problems, and quality of life issues.  By quality of life issues-eating, playing, appearing comfortable, and not in pain.  When the time comes that quality of life is no longer there, that's when I make the final decision to put my cat to sleep.  As for the radiation treatment, I've never had the treatment done before to any of my cats(had a bunch over my lifetime!!).  I would, personally consider it though.  I would probably try a couple to see how my animal tolerated the treatment, and also assess if it was shrinking the tumor.  If my animal didn't tolerate it, then I'd cut off the treatment.

What do you mean be tough on you??  LOL.  There's no need to be tough, your baby has a good quality of life here from what you describe.  You don't have to follow my advice.  I just wanted to let you know what I would do in this situation if it were my cat.  You need to make the choice that's right for you.  But, I will strongly reccommend the biopsy, because it's so important.

Well, let us know what you've decided or if you need more support!!  There are some very sweet, caring people on this forum that'll love to help.

Hugs
Staci