Radiation Therapy for cats?

[lyorn]

My sweet 14yo cat has recently had a growth removed on his lower lip. It turned out the growth was malignant and could not be completely removed. A safe removal could be done in theory but considering the location... No. Just no.

However, the clinic says that radiation therapy could be given to a cat. I know a few things about RT, but nothing in the context of cats. Is that something even worth considering?

The third option is cortisone and palliative care, and to hope for a few more good months.
That's what I feel is the best option, but I'd like to remedy my lack of knowledge about RT before I make a decision.

Help?

Comments

[althea_valara]

I have no advice to give, just offering hugs and a wish that whatever choice you choose brings both you and kitty comfort.

[lyorn]

Thank you.

[cesy]

I had to research this the other month for my cat, though at the moment her lump is only growing slowly and not affecting her.

The side effects of both radiotherapy and chemotherapy tend to be much less bad for cats than they are for humans. It can be expensive. Symptom treatment, steroids and/or palliative care are often the best option, but it varies case by case.

[lyorn]

Thank you for the info.

I have now decided to go for palliative treatment, mostly because it's a one hour drive (one way) to the clinc, not a simple one (city driving during rush hour), and the cat becomes stressed and scared. I tried to think of a scenario where a treatment would be managable, and could not come up with one, and neither could the clinic.

So it's steroids and cuddles and hope.

[cesy]

Oof, yes, if the journey is too stressful for the cat that's a big factor.