Brain Tumors

What is a brain tumor? 

A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of cells in the brain. Approximately 75% of brain tumors in cats originate in the brain, and are called “primary” tumors. The most common primary brain tumor in a cat is a meningioma, which is usually non-invasive and self-contained. “Secondary” tumors are caused by the spread of cancer from another location to the brain. Tumors of any kind can cause brain injury from compression, inflammation, infiltration, and edema.

What are common brain tumor signs in cats?

Early signs include:

• Behavior changes
• Listlessness

Intermediate to advanced signs include: 

• Drunken gait
• Head tilt
• Head pressing
• Walking in circles
• Vision loss
• Seizures

How are brain tumors managed in cats?  

Management depends on the brain tumor type, location, signs, and treatment cost. Palliative care focuses on keeping your cat comfortable with medications to reduce brain inflammation, minimize seizures, and control pain. Definitive care involves surgical removal of a primary tumor, and/or radiation. Chemotherapy is usually ineffective for primary brain tumors, but research on different treatment modalities is ongoing. Discussing a personalized management plan with your veterinarian and veterinary oncologist is important for the best outcome for your cat.

What is the prognosis in cats?

Your cat’s prognosis depends on whether the brain tumor is primary or secondary, and the severity of signs. For a primary brain tumor, survival may be between three to six months with strictly palliative care, or 28 to 54 months if the tumor can be surgically removed with no complications. Unfortunately, cats with secondary brain tumors usually do not survive for more than a month.

Management tips for a cat with a brain tumor

At-home needs include:

• Consistency with medications, which can be compounded into tasty treats
• Easy access to food, water, litter box, and a comfortable location
• Prescription diets and supplements that promote brain function
• Separation from other animals, to avoid altercations or injury
• Caution with handling, and avoiding sudden movements

For end-of-life care:

• Try to keep your cat safe and comfortable
• Ensure they get adequate nutrition and hydration
• Monitor for pain or discomfort
• Evaluate your cat’s quality of life with our scoring tool
• Track progression of your cat’s health with our calendar

In a crisis situation:

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your cat suddenly collapses, has uncontrollable seizures, experiences difficulty breathing, behaves aggressively, or vocalizes in pain.

Before your cat’s condition becomes unmanageable, or they begin losing their quality of life, beginning end-of-life care discussions is vital. Learn more about pet hospice, in-home euthanasia, and our teleadvice service, or contact a Lap of Love veterinarian in your area, so you can feel fully prepared for this difficult time.