My cat has cancer and won't eat. Is his quality of life declining?

Question

My cat was treated for an ear infection and two months later after an x-ray of the lump (had gotten bigger)I was told he had cancer. It had started eating into his skull. I took him to an oncologist for a second opion and was told they could try and slow down the growth of the tumor but he would have (even w/treatment) 2-4 mos. more w/me. I has been six mos. and now the tumor has spread down the neck and around the throat area. In the past 2-3 days he's drinking water but no food intake. Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 5.44 lbs

Stephanie Echols, DVM · Accepted Answer

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I’m so sorry to hear about Pepper. Cats need to eat everyday to prevent organ damage. If he stopped eating, I would be concerned the cancer is causing him too much discomfort to eat. When we talk about quality of life and when to make end of life decisions, I measure good days and bad days. When the bad days outweigh the good ones, then quality of life is declining. Good days are doing things he likes to do (like be social if he likes to be social, get petted, sleep in his favorite area, eating, using the litter box). Bad days are not eating, vomiting, diarrhea, hiding, lethargy, weight loss. If Pepper has been eating well since his diagnosis but suddenly stopped, I would consider it a bad day. I hope this help when determining his continued care. If you have more questions or concerns, please submit another question. Kisses to Pepper!

My cat has cancer and won't eat. Is his quality of life declining?

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