Cancer Pains

It's best to keep calm and stay optimistic for the sake of your pet.

Of course, it's best to take a proactive role when it comes to the health of your pet and while this may seem obvious, the best way to do so will be to ask your vet questions. Ask him about the prognosis, treatment, and costs.

It is important to get all the answers to any doubts you may have, as doing so will better equip you to provide your pet with the best care you possibly can. Most veterinarians are open to questions, and will patiently explain every detail to you until you are comfortably clear about your pet's condition.

Taking Care Of Business

If possible, seek a second opinion at another medical professional. This is to ensure that the original diagnosis was accurate. The more informed you are about your pet's condition, the better you can work out a plan for him.

When you decide to follow through on the treatment suggestions given by a vet that you trust, ensure that you stick to it. This may include feeding your pet medication on time, keeping up with scheduled vet visits, and making the necessary dietary changes.

Of course, treatment for cancer is costly. It is therefore important to consider your options properly before making any major decisions. If you already have a pet insurance policy that covers cancer treatment, your finances will be more or less settled.

Even with all these major life changes, do your best to ensure that your pet's usual day-to-day routine is not disrupted. Cats and dogs find a lot of comfort in routine, so stick with it.

Keep Your Spirits Up

While your furkid may suspect that something is amiss due to the increasing number of trips to the vet's office, do bear in mind that he is unlikely to understand that he has cancer. Continue with your furkid's daily walk or exercise, it'll definitely do him good!

Above all, pet owners should stay optimistic. While this isn't easy, your four-legged friend will notice if you become depressed, which may result in anxiety and sadness on her part as well. Keep both of your spirits up by engaging in activities you enjoy doing together.

Cancer is not always a death sentence, and your furkid may just live for another ten good years.

That said, it may be useful to create a bucket list. This doesn't necessarily mean that you have "accepted" or are resigned to your pet's death. Rather, it'll help to keep both of you on track, ensuring that every day is lived to the fullest.

When the day really comes for your furry companion to cross the Rainbow Bridge, find comfort in the fact that you have tried to make his life as your best friend the best one possible.

* The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified pet health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. Always make a pet health care decision in partnership with a qualified veterinary or pet health care professional.

*This article was updated on 30 Dec 2020. It first appeared in PetsMagazine.com.sg on 18 May 2016.