Possible Tumour.

[furrypusscat]

My cat has been limping on hind leg for 5 weeks. Initial visit to vet was thought to be pulled knee ligament and was treated with antibiotic and anti-inflammatory injections over 4 week period. No better and so was xrayed last Thursday. Vet now thinks there is a possibility it may be a tumour on his leg. His chest is clear so if it is a cancerous growth, it hasn't spread to his chest which would no doubt be the next area to be affected. We have an appointment tomorrow at the Cambridge University Animal Hospital for further tests. I understand if only the leg is affected then his leg may well have to be amputated which having read various articles, cats adapt easily to this. Obviously I am gutted but will have to do what is right for Puss and be guided by the experts. Has anyone else had this problem with their furry friends and what has been the quality of life and outcome. Would be glad of any input.

[furrypusscat]

Also to add, he is only just 10 years of age so not an old cat, if he was then there would be no question as to my views of what to do.

[Lil'Lucy]

I found this - this cat needed a leg removed for other reasons (ie not tumour) but it just goes to show how well they cope!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WGoaTDNdhi0

[josaphine32]

So sorry to hear about your poor puss, the vet will advise you on what kind of tumour it is and what lies ahead for your deer puss, I had a dog with bone cancer and had him put to sleep as there were no other options, if it is localised and not spread then he may well have his leg amputated, just bare in mind that he may need chemo depending on what cancer it is, only you know how he is in him self, 10 is not old for a cat, waite till vets appointment and talk thoroughly with them, write down questions you want answered before you go, as your head is in a different place when there, good luck, x

[furrypusscat]

Thank you both for sharing your kind thoughts. Re Benji, it is very encouraging to see how this cat coped, certainly didn't seem to stop him doing the things he enjoyed. I have noted your comments re questions to ask and agree it is a good idea. Tomorrow is looming, fingers crossed that the tumour, if it is, has not spread to other areas.

[Sqad]

Yes, one of ours was hit by a lorry and to cut a long story short, she had to have a back leg amputated.

No problem...she adapted beautifully, was the first of the lot up the tree and lived a long life.

[paddywak]

My nephews cat,Tigger, lost a leg to a snare when he was about a year old he lived till he was nearly 18 and for most of that time he was top cat in his neighbourhood.

[furrypusscat]

Thank you Sqad for sharing your story. It is good to know that should this be the necessary action we have to take Puss will, I am sure adapt. It is just if he goes on to require chemo that I fear the decision will be a difficult one to make and we must be guided by the specialist advice.

[bensmum]

I used to look after a cat who had a leg amputated while quite young and she lived to the great age of 21 - it certainly never slowed her down! They do adapt pretty well so, if it does come to it, I'm sure your cat will be fine. Good luck xxx

[furrypusscat]

Thanks paddywak. It certainly sounds that if it is just leg amputation, then I think he will cope well. He is such a laid back cat, it is a shame. We can do anything with him and he doesn't mind.

[slinky.kate]

my dog has his front leg amputated but it doesnt get him down ,he runs around with the rest of them,i would'nt worry your wee cat will be fine

[furrypusscat]

Thanks everyone for your input. I will give an update as soon as I can.

[josaphine32]

Hi furry, how is your cat doing, any news, thinking of you and connemmara, hope things are ok, x

[furrypusscat]

Not good news. Puss taken to Cambridge yesterday and stayed overnight for necessary tests. Before doing a full biopsy of the lump, it was noticeable that his heart was not functioning fully. ECG, and scans done of his heart which they say is severe cardiac disease and would not stand up to a full anaesthetic. He has been prescribed heart medication which he will need for remainder of his life and a further appointment made for 2 weeks for recheck on heart condition. A full biopsy could possibly be done then but lump has been confirmed as a tumor. Thinking of just letting him stay in his home surroundings for the remainder of his time which may be around 9 months. Amputation will not really add much more and no more if tumor spread. Really upset but nothing we can do. Both myself and hubby have shed some tears over last 2 days.Thanks for everyone's concern. Will keep you updated.

[furrypusscat]

Update on Puss. Took him back to Cambridge yesterday. Heart scan showed signs of improvement having had medication for 3 weeks. Operation for amputation carried out today and have been told that he has come out of op fine and was eating. Should be bringing him home Thursday. Feel happier now, just want him home.