Brain Tumors in Cats
Key takeaways
Brain tumors are abnormal growths on the brain, and are uncommon in cats.
- Tumors can originate in the brain (primary tumor) or be formed by the spread of cancer cells from another area of the body (secondary tumor)
- The cause is unknown, but incidence is higher in older, male cats
- Seizures are the primary symptom of a brain tumor
- Other symptoms include behavioral changes, difficulty walking, reduced activity levels, confusion, and changes in vision
- Diagnosis can involve imaging, blood work, biopsy, and cerebrospinal fluid testing (spinal tap)
- Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, palliative care, and symptom management
- Prognosis is generally poor in cases of brain tumors, and treatment is primarily concerned with reducing discomfort and other symptoms
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A closer look: Brain Tumors in Cats
Brain tumors are uncommon in cats and do not have a known primary cause. When significant symptoms are present, prognosis is generally poor and treatment becomes palliative to manage quality of life.
Secondary brain tumors occur as a metastasis of a tumor from another area of the body, often the ear, nose, pituitary gland, or skull.
The most common type of brain tumor in cats is a meningioma. These arise from the tissue lining the brain and are benign, but create symptoms as they grow and put pressure on the brain.
Other brain tumors in cats include lymphoma, pituitary tumors, and tumors arising from other specialized cell types within the brain.
Lymphosarcoma in the brain is associated with feline leukemia virus.
Any first appearance of seizures or difficulty walking is an emergency warranting immediate veterinary assessment.
Risk factors
Symptoms can vary in severity depending on the size of the tumor and whether there is swelling or fluid around the brain. Incidence of primary tumors is higher in older, male cats.
Possible causes
The causes of primary brain tumors are not currently known. As with all forms of cancer, genetic and environmental factors are suggested.
Main symptoms
Testing and diagnosis
After a physical examination and medical history, a number of tests can be done to determine the presence of a brain tumor and the staging:
- Diagnostic imaging
- Blood work
- Cerebrospinal fluid testing
- Biopsy
Steps to Recovery
Once a brain tumor is confirmed, treatment varies depending on the staging of the tumor and progression of the symptoms. Treatment can include:
- Surgery
- Radiation
- Chemotherapy
- Symptom management
- Palliative care
Prognosis is generally poor for brain tumors and the majority of treatment is palliative or symptom management. Brain tumors are not often caught until they are large enough for significant symptoms and neurological damage.
Prevention
The causes of brain tumors are not currently known, so prevention is not possible. Monitoring of changes in pet behavior and health can allow for earlier detection and intervention.
Vaccination is available for feline leukemia virus, which is associated with lymphoma.
Brain tumors are not contagious.
Is Brain Tumors in Cats common?
Brain tumors are uncommon in cats.
Typical Treatment
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation
- Surgery
- Palliative care
- Symptom management
