Advancements in feline oncology: diagnosis, treatment, and management of domestic cat cancers

The domestic cat is one of the most beloved and widely spread companion animals with a population of approximately 1 billion individuals, although more than half of those comprise stray cats. Their popularity as pets has grown globally, largely because they are considered low-maintenance, quiet, and affordable. Currently, the largest populations of domestic cats are found in the United States, China, Russia, Germany, France, Brazil, the United Kingdom and Italy. Cats are more popular than dogs in Russia and Japan, reflecting cultural preferences and lifestyle factors that favor feline companionship.

The life expectancy of cats varies significantly depending on several factors, including age, sex, neuter status, breed and geographical location. In the United Kingdom, the average life expectancy is estimated at 11.7 years, with road traffic accidents representing the leading cause of death, followed by renal disease, cardiovascular disease and neoplasia (1).

Neoplasia is one of the main causes of mortality in adult and senior domestic cats and it represents an increasing health concern. Moreover, it represents a major health risk to young cats living in FeLV-endemic areas, as it dramatically increases the likelihood of developing aggressive forms of lymphoma and leukemia (2, 3).

In this context, feline oncology has emerged as an important field in veterinary medicine due to the growing global cat population and rising prevalence of neoplastic diseases. Unlike other companion animals, cancer in cats exhibit unique biological and clinical behaviors that demand species-specific diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. This Research Topic brings together cutting-edge studies that address critical challenges in the diagnosis, treatment, and understanding of feline cancers. The contributions presented here encompass epidemiological analyses, novel prognostic markers, and innovative therapeutic approaches, collectively advancing our ability to provide more effective and tailored oncological care for feline patients.

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Authors: Rodrigo dos Santos Horta, Antonio Giuliano, Fernanda Vieira Amorim da Costa 

Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/