Sadly, the answer is yes: cats can get skin cancer too. While cats can get many types of skin cancer, the most common skin cancer in cats is squamous cell carcinoma, which is caused by exposure to the sun. So, let’s take a look at how to spot signs of skin cancer in cats, and what you can do to protect your feline friend. 

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Type of skin cancer in cats 

While cats can develop many forms of skin cancer, the most common include:

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

This cancer arises in the squamous cells, which are found in the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis). Because it is caused by sun exposure, it is most common in white or ginger cats, or those with fair skin. SCC most commonly affects areas where the skin is most exposed to the sun, so the ear tips, nose or eyelids. SCC usually starts as a crusty patch or scabby wound that won’t heal. The lesion will get bigger over time, and eventually will spread to other areas of the body. It is most common in cats over 5 years old.

Mast cell tumours

Mast cell tumours can affect the skin, spleen or intestines; with the skin being the most common site in cats. They arise in the mast cells, which are involved in the immune system. Skin mast cell tumours are usually found around the head or neck in cats. They vary in how aggressive they are. Mast cell tumours appear as nodules or plaques in the skin, which may ulcerate.

Melanoma

This is cancer of melanocytes, which are the pigment producing cells within the skin. It often forms around the nose or mouth, but can sometimes be found in other areas. Unfortunately, this type of cancer tends to be aggressive, meaning it grows quickly and spreads to the lymph nodes and other areas of the body. 

What causes skin cancer in cats?

The most common type of skin cancer in cats is squamous cell carcinoma, which is caused by exposure to the sun. The causes of other types of skin cancer are less clear. It is thought that genetics may play a role, but more research is needed here.

Skin cancer in cats: symptoms

So, what do cancer lumps look like in cats? Well, skin cancer can vary in appearance, depending on the type of cancer and the severity. Signs to watch out for include:

  • Wounds or ulcers that are taking longer than expected to heal (especially around the ear tips, nose, eyes or mouth)
  • Patches of scabs, crusts or raw looking skin
  • Red, raised skin lumps
  • Warty lumps
  • Nodules or lumps in or under the skin

Since skin cancer can take many forms, if you notice any changes or new lumps in your cat’s skin, it’s safest to have them checked by your vet. This includes any wounds that aren’t healing, or any crusty areas. Early detection and treatment can make all the difference with some types of cancer, especially SCC.

Skin cancer in cats: treatment

Treatment options will depend on the type of skin cancer, where it is found on the body, how early it is caught, how aggressive it is, and whether it has spread. 

SCC on the ear tips can often be removed surgically, in a procedure called a pinnectomy. This is where part, or all, of the outer ear (the pinna) is removed. If caught early enough, surgery can be curative. Surgery is often the treatment of choice for other skin cancers too.

Radiotherapy or chemotherapy are sometimes used alongside surgery; or instead of surgery in cases that cannot be operated on.

How can I protect my cat against skin cancer?

While many types of cancer cannot be prevented, you can reduce the risk of your cat developing squamous cell carcinoma. The advice is much the same as for people. Consider keeping your cat inside on very sunny days, especially if they enjoy sunbathing! You can use pet-safe sun cream to protect the most exposed areas (with little fur coverage), such as the ear tips. However, keep in mind that they may lick or wash this off, for example by licking their paws and then rubbing their ears. If you use sun cream for cats, it’s a good idea to monitor your cat for twenty minutes after application, to make sure that they aren’t washing it off. This is especially important in white, ginger or hairless cats.

Skin cancer in cats: survival rate

If found and treated early, some types of skin cancer can be cured. However, the prognosis (outcome) will depend on the type of cancer, where it is located on the body, and whether it has spread.

Take home message? 

The sooner you have any new wounds, lumps, bumps or changes in your cat’s skin checked out by a vet, the better. While many of these will turn out to be harmless, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

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