Understanding the Symptoms of Cat Lymphoma Based on Location

You know your cat’s behavior better than anyone else and being able to identify subtle changes can make a big impact on how well your cat is able to navigate treatment. Early detection can increase a cat's chances of receiving appropriate care, improving their quality of life and prolonging survival.

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What is Lymphoma? How does it affect cats? 

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that is part of the immune system and helps fight infections, cancer, bacteria, and viruses. Lymphocytes are an important cell in the body, but when they mutate, they can form into lymphoma. Lymphocytes are a key component of the lymphatic system which runs all over the body so lymphoma can occur in multiple different places. In cats, lymphoma can develop in various parts of the body, especially the gastrointestinal tract, but it can also develop in the chest, lymph nodes, liver, spleen, and even the skin.

There are several types of lymphoma in cats which relate to where the lymphoma is located in the body and gastrointestinal lymphoma is the most common type. Other forms include mediastinal (affecting the chest cavity), multicentric (affecting multiple lymph nodes), and extranodal (affecting organs outside the lymph nodes, such as the skin, kidneys, or eyes). Diagnosing lymphoma in cats typically uses the anatomical location of the cancer cells to help focus the treatment method the way that staging can help with other cancers. 

Risk factors include age, exposure to viruses such as feline leukemia virus (FeLV) or feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and, potentially, environmental factors. Symptoms vary widely depending on the location of the cancer and the stage of the disease. 

You can learn more about what lymphoma in cats looks like and how it differs from FeLV and FIV in our post here. 

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Gastrointestinal Lymphoma: The Most Common Lymphoma in Cats

Gastrointestinal (GI) lymphoma, the most common form, affects the stomach, intestines, and other digestive organs.GI lymphoma can be small cell type (lymphocytic, low grade), or large cell type (lymphoblastic, high grade). Both small and large cell lymphoma are treated with chemotherapy.^1,2,3

Symptoms:

• Vomiting and diarrhea: Cats may exhibit chronic gastrointestinal distress. This can be vomiting or diarrhea.
• Weight loss: A gradual or rapid decline in weight is typical as nutrient absorption becomes impaired and many cats do not eat as well.
• Lack of appetite: Cats with gastrointestinal lymphoma often show decreased interest in food which can be from nausea.
• Abdominal discomfort: Some cats may display signs of abdominal pain or discomfort, often through restlessness or refusal to be touched.

Because of its location in the digestive tract, gastrointestinal lymphoma can often be mistaken for other gastrointestinal disorders, making early veterinary care essential for diagnosis.

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Nasal Lymphoma

Nasal lymphoma affects the nasal passages and sinus cavities and is less common than other forms but can cause significant discomfort. Nasal lymphoma is one of the few lymphomas that benefit from radiation treatment alongside chemotherapy becuase it can be specifically targeted to the cancer cells in the nose.³ 

Symptoms:

• Nasal discharge: Persistent discharge from the nose, often bloody or pus-like, is a key symptom.
• Sneezing: Frequent sneezing, which may be mistaken for an upper respiratory infection.
• Facial deformity or swelling: In advanced cases, the nose or face may become swollen or misshapen due to tumor growth.
• Difficulty breathing through the nose: Cats may breathe through their mouth or show discomfort while breathing.

Nasal lymphoma can be mistaken for other respiratory infections, so it’s important to consult a vet if symptoms persist.

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Renal (Kidney) Lymphoma

Renal lymphoma affects the kidneys and can lead to significant impairment in kidney function. It is often associated with more advanced stages of the disease. Renal lymphoma is a rare form of lymphoma in cats and is treated most effectively with chemotherapy.^1,3

Symptoms:

• Increased thirst and urination: As the kidneys become affected, cats may drink more water and urinate more frequently, similar to other kidney-related conditions.
• Weight loss and poor appetite: Cats may lose weight rapidly and have a poor appetite due to kidney dysfunction.
• Lethargy: Cats with renal lymphoma often become more lethargic and weak.
• Vomiting: Frequent vomiting may occur, especially as toxins build up in the body due to impaired kidney function.

Renal lymphoma can sometimes lead to kidney failure, so it is crucial to seek veterinary advice if you observe these symptoms. Even if you have had no reason to suspect you cat my have lymphoma, these symptoms are generally a good sign that something may be wrong with your cat and having them checked out for any possible causes when you notice is the best way to move forward. 

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Central Nervous System (CNS) Lymphoma

CNS lymphoma affects the brain and spinal cord, leading to severe neurological symptoms. Though very rare, it is one of the more serious forms of lymphoma in cats.³

Symptoms:

• Seizures: Cats with CNS lymphoma may suffer from seizures, which can range from mild to severe.
• Paralysis or weakness: You may notice partial paralysis or significant weakness, especially in the limbs.
• Disorientation: Cats may exhibit confusion, walking in circles, or trouble recognizing their surroundings.
• Behavioral changes: Cats may become unusually aggressive, irritable, or exhibit strange behaviors.

CNS lymphoma can have a rapid onset, and the neurological symptoms are often alarming. Immediate veterinary intervention is crucial to manage this condition.

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Mediastinal (Chest) Lymphoma

Mediastinal lymphoma occurs in the chest cavity, particularly around the thymus or lymph nodes located there. Historically it was seen in younger cats and cats infected with FeLV. Cats that test negative for FeLV have been found more likely to have long-term remissions with chemotherapy treatment. Cats can also have enlarged lymph nodes in the abdomen and peripherally. Mediastinal lymphoma is more uncommon than gastrointestinal lymphoma but it is not considered a rare corrucance.^1,2,3

Symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing: One of the most prominent signs of mediastinal lymphoma is respiratory distress, such as labored breathing or panting.
• Coughing: Cats may develop a persistent cough due to pressure on the chest cavity or fluid buildup.
• Lethargy: Cats often display extreme lethargy, with limited interest in activity.
• Swelling of the face or front limbs: This can occur due to fluid buildup in the chest.

Because this form affects the chest, it can lead to noticeable breathing issues and general discomfort. Immediate veterinary attention is critical if your cat is struggling to breathe, no matter the cause.

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Multicentric Lymphoma

Multicentric lymphoma involves multiple lymph nodes and can spread to other organs. It is one of the more aggressive forms of lymphoma and often affects cats of all ages. Symptoms can include any of those listed in specific locations of the body, as well as the following.^1,2,3

Symptoms:

• Swollen lymph nodes: The most obvious sign is enlargement of the lymph nodes, which can be felt around the neck, shoulders, or groin areas.
• Lethargy: Cats with multicentric lymphoma are often very lethargic and weak.
• Weight loss: Weight loss and muscle wasting are common as the disease progresses.
• Appetite loss: Many cats stop eating altogether, leading to dehydration and further weight loss.

Because it affects multiple lymph nodes, the symptoms of multicentric lymphoma are more generalized, and the disease often progresses rapidly without treatment.

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ImpriMed Assists Your Vet in Caring for Your Cat

Recognizing the symptoms of lymphoma at different anatomical locationsis essential for ensuring that your cat receives the best possible care. Early detection can lead to better treatment outcomes while understanding the signs your cat will show of health distress allows owners to focus on comfort and quality of life. If your cat exhibits any of the symptoms mentioned, it's crucial to consult with a veterinarian promptly.

Find out how ImpriMed can help your vet with faster diagnoses and treatment plan support.