Ovarian Tumors in Cats
Key takeaways
Ovarian tumors describe several types of abnormal masses which grow on the ovaries and associated connective structures. These are rare in cats and are most prominent in unspayed, older female cats.
- The primary symptoms include a mass in the abdomen, abdominal distension, and abdominal pain
- Depending on the tumor type, additional symptoms include lethargy, rapid breathing, and appetite loss
- In the case of some tumors, excess sex hormones can be produced leading to hyper feminization (swollen vulva and mammary enlargement) or masculinization (lack of reproductive cycling)
- Diagnosis requires a physical examination, diagnostic imaging, blood work, and a biopsy
- Treatment primarily involves surgical removal of the tumor or ovary, which may be accompanied by chemotherapy, radiation, and/or palliative care
- Prognosis is unclear as ovarian tumors are incredibly rare, in cases of metastatic tumors, however, the prognosis is poor
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A closer look: Ovarian Tumors in Cats
Ovarian tumors are rare in regions where most cats are spayed since sexual alteration involves removal of the ovaries.
Cats with ovarian tumors are usually asymptomatic until a physical mass can be detected. Since tumors are usually advanced by the time they are detected, prompt veterinary attention is required to increase the chance of treatment before the tumor metastasizes.
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Risk factors
Ovarian tumors are almost exclusively seen in older, unspayed cats.
Symptoms can vary depending on the type of tumor;
Types include papillary adenoma, undifferentiated carcinoma, dysgerminomas, teratomas.
Granulosa cell tumor is a common type
Possible causes
The underlying cause for most types of cancer formation in the ovaries is currently unknown. As with all forms of cancer, genetic and environmental factors are suspected.
Ovarian tumors can also be influenced by hormones and have been seen to increase after certain hormone therapies.
Main symptoms
Ovarian tumors are initially asymptomatic until they are large enough to be detected. The primary symptom of ovarian cancer is a palpable mass in the lower abdomen. This can also include swelling and discomfort around the abdomen.
Testing and diagnosis
After a physical examination and medical history, a number of tests can be done to determine the presence of an ovarian tumor and staging of the cancer;
- Diagnostic imaging
- Blood work
- Urinalysis
- Biopsy
Steps to Recovery
Once an ovarian tumor is diagnosed, treatment depends on the staging of the cancer and the number of tumors. Surgical removal of the ovary may be curative for a single, non-metastatic tumor. A complete spay (removal of both ovaries and uterus) may be performed at the same time.
Information about the efficacy of radiation and chemotherapy for ovarian tumors in cats is scarce, but these therapies may be attempted, especially if the cancer has metastasized or is difficult to surgically remove.
Ovarian tumors are very rare in cats and as such, prognosis is not fully understood. In cases of metastasis, there is a poor prognosis.
Prevention
Spaying reduces the likelihood of ovarian cancer immensely since the ovaries are removed during the procedure. Some ovarian tumors can occur after hormone therapy, so avoiding exposure to hormone-containing medications and creams can reduce the risk.
Ovarian tumors are not contagious.
Is Ovarian Tumors in Cats common?
Ovarian tumors are rare in cats, especially in regions where most female cats are spayed.
Typical Treatment
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation
- Palliative care
