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My cat has cancer, but her symptoms appeared so quickly. Why?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Russian Blue | Female | spayed | 9 years and 4 months old | 7 lbs

How fast acting is cancer in cats? I took my cat to the vet today, and he says that she likely has cancer. She was acting normal just a week ago though! To clarify, since last Thursday I've noticed that she is not eating or drinking on her own, not using her litter box, is lethargic, and is seeking damp, secluded spaces. It's just shocking to me that these symptoms have popped up so quickly.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on May 13th, 2019

It depends on the type of cancer. Some malignant ones spread quickly, while others are slower. In addition, it can happen that the cat has had cancer for a bit, but only shows signs when they are already really sick, making it seem like it came on suddenly. I’m sorry Mika has cancer!

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