On the Use for Gastrointestinal Lymphoma
I have a 15-year-old cat. For the past few months, it has been experiencing consistent diarrhea. Despite using antibiotics, there was no improvement, and upon further examination, my cat was diagnosed with gastrointestinal lymphoma.
The attending veterinarian strongly recommended chemotherapy, but I am worried whether my cat’s body can handle it at this age. The vet also mentioned that my cat’s appetite has slightly decreased and advised me to let it eat anything as long as it will eat it.
Is chemotherapy the only treatment option available?
Lymphoma is a type of tumor that generally responds well to chemotherapy, but it is crucial to consider the overall condition, such as age, general health, appetite, and blood test results, to determine whether the treatment is suitable.
Given the advanced age of your cat, its poor appetite, and ongoing diarrhea, initiating chemotherapy immediately poses a high risk of side effects.
In cases of gastrointestinal lymphoma, there is a concern that the tumor may grow and obstruct the intestines (intestinal blockage). Therefore, it might be beneficial to calm the tumor’s swelling with steroids while addressing diarrhea and improving appetite in the meantime.
Steroids have been shown to be quite effective in treating lymphoma, and studies have reported that combining steroids with Cordyceps can help manage lymphoma symptoms.
However, steroids have the effect of suppressing the immune system, which means prolonged use could create an environment where tumor cells can thrive.
Maintaining immune strength can potentially mitigate the side effects of steroids.
Additionally, supplements containing organic germanium may improve blood circulation and reduce pain, which could be considered. However, if breathing issues or heart disease are present, it is safer to avoid supplements containing organic germanium. Supplements with lactic acid bacteria are recommended if the intestinal condition is poor (such as chronic diarrhea or constipation).
Regarding diet, it is essential to ensure adequate food intake for strengthening the body, and forced feeding may be necessary if the cat cannot eat on its own.
However, allowing the cat to eat “anything it wants” might result in consuming nutrients that could feed the tumor.
Tumors derive their nutrition from carbohydrates, specifically sugars. Therefore, it is best to avoid feeding rice, bread, potatoes, and sweets to the cat as much as possible.
Instead, focus on providing adequate protein as it can starve tumor cells and helps maintain muscle mass, improving overall strength.
Especially for cats, which are obligate carnivores, the intake of protein is indispensable.
You may give your pet meat or fish, and Green Tripe (the stomach of ruminant animals) is rich in digestive enzymes, high in calories, and high in protein. Even if only a small amount is consumed, it can provide some level of energy.
(*High-protein foods are not recommended if there is concurrent kidney failure. Please refer to the article “Concurrent Tumors and Kidney Failure“.)
Regarding meals, please refer to the following:
Combining Immune Therapy with Cancer Treatment
Enhancing immunity along with cancer treatments at animal hospitals has shown to improve prognosis in many cases. There have been numerous reports indicating that, even if the tumor does not completely disappear, the pet’s vitality and appetite can recover, potentially improving their quality of life (QOL).
If you have any questions, please contact us.
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