Cases of cancer diagnosed in pets are increasing. But is this trend really linked to an increase in cases or to better detection tools? Dr Fabing explains the causes and gives us advice on how to prevent these diseases.
Advances in veterinary medicine allow our animals to live longer thanks to better nutrition, vaccines and regular care. But this increased longevity is accompanied by an increase in age-related diseases, including cancer. Furthermore, technological advances such as medical imaging and laboratory analyzes can detect previously unidentified cancers. So, the increase in diagnoses does not reflect an explosion of cases, but rather a better ability to recognize them.
The main risk factors
The causes of cancer in animals are often multiple. Among the most common:
- The environment : animals are exposed to the same pollutants as us, such as pesticides, chemicals, and even passive smoking.
- Genetics : certain breeds of dogs have a genetic predisposition to certain types of cancer.
- Age : As in humans, the risk of developing cancer increases with age.
Prevention: essential actions
Just as for humans, certain preventive actions are essential to guarantee the health of our animals:
- Make sure it has a good diet ;
- Make sure that he exercise practice regularly ;
- Take care of his environment : limit exposure to chemicals, certain cleaners and tobacco;
- Think about the sterilizationwhich reduces the risk of mammary tumors in females.
It is essential to have an annual check-up carried out by your veterinarian every year, who will be able to detect early anomalies and intervene quickly if necessary.
Advice from the vet, Dr Pierre Fabing
Find out every morning The vet’s advice. Nutrition, preventive care, stress management, everything is there to take care of our domestic animals and guarantee them a healthy and happy life.
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