🌞 Vet Guide to Nasal Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Cats: Prevention, Diagnosis & Treatment in 2025 🐱

By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc

Nasal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in cats is a locally invasive tumor that arises from the cells lining the nasal skin and passages. While frightening, this condition can be treatable—especially when detected early. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the key aspects of this cancer, from risk factors and symptoms to diagnostics, treatment choices, and long-term management in 2025. 🧪🐾

What Is Nasal Squamous Cell Carcinoma? 🧬

SCC is a cancer that originates from squamous cells, which are flat cells found on the surface of the skin and mucous membranes. These tumors tend to destroy surrounding tissue rather than spreading to distant organs early on. That makes early intervention both possible and critical. 📅

Common Areas Affected

• 👃 Nose and nasal planum (leather of the nose)
• 👂 Ear tips
• 👁️ Eyelid margins

The disease often begins as a scabby sore that fails to heal. It’s easy to mistake these early lesions for minor scrapes or skin infections—until they persist and worsen.

What Causes Nasal SCC in Cats? 🌞

The leading cause of nasal SCC in cats is ultraviolet (UV) light exposure. White or light-colored cats are especially vulnerable due to their lack of melanin. 😺☀️

Risk Factors

• White or light-colored fur
• Sunbathing or outdoor access in sunny climates
• Advanced age (middle-aged to senior cats are more prone)

Recognizing the Signs 🕵️‍♂️

Look out for these warning signs—especially on light-skinned areas of the face:

• 🩸 Non-healing scabs or sores on the nose or ears
• 😿 Bleeding or discharge from the nose
• 🧏 Tissue erosion or visible damage
• 🤧 Nasal congestion or breathing difficulties (in advanced stages)

Since SCC progresses locally rather than systemically, early diagnosis is your cat’s best hope for recovery. 🏥

Diagnosis: Getting to the Bottom of It 🔍

Veterinary Assessment

Your vet may perform the following:

• 📋 Physical exam with a focus on facial lesions
• 📸 Imaging (X-rays, CT) to evaluate tissue invasion
• 🧬 Biopsy to confirm cancer and assess margins

A confirmed biopsy helps determine whether surgery, radiation, or other options are feasible. Pathology is key to planning treatment. 🧫

Treatment Options 🩺

1. Surgical Removal 🔪

If detected early, surgery can be curative. This often involves removal of the nose leather and surrounding skin. The appearance post-surgery may look different, but cosmetic healing is often excellent. 🐱💉

Considerations:

• Wide tissue margins are needed to prevent regrowth
• Laser surgery is ideal to minimize bleeding
• Pain management and nerve blocks aid in recovery

2. Cryotherapy ❄️

This involves freezing the tumor with a cryoprobe. It’s best for smaller, superficial tumors. While less invasive, it doesn’t allow for tissue biopsy and follow-up analysis. Side effects like redness and swelling are usually mild. 🧊

3. Radiation Therapy ☢️

Radiation is an excellent option for cats that are not ideal surgical candidates or for tumors in difficult locations.

• Strontium-90 Plesiotherapy: Direct local radiation for superficial tumors
• External Beam Radiation: Ideal for deeper tissue involvement

In one study, 60% of cats had a complete tumor response with radiation. A veterinary oncologist will help determine the right approach. 🏥

4. Imiquimod 5% Cream 💊

This topical immune-modifier may be useful for Bowenoid carcinoma (in situ form) or as palliative care. Be cautious, as it can cause GI upset if licked. This treatment is usually reserved for tumors too large for surgery or radiation. 😿

5. NSAID Therapy 💉

Certain feline-safe NSAIDs like meloxicam or robenacoxib may offer modest anti-tumor effects due to their impact on cyclooxygenase expression in SCC cells. They can also help with pain. These drugs must be used under veterinary supervision to avoid kidney or GI complications. 🧪

Post-Treatment Recovery and Monitoring 🔁

After treatment, follow-up care is essential to prevent regrowth and monitor overall well-being. Here’s what to expect:

• 🎽 Use of an e-collar to prevent scratching or licking surgical sites
• 🛌 A quiet recovery area
• 🍗 Tempting foods and appetite stimulants if appetite drops
• 🚿 Wound cleaning (sometimes under sedation)

Contact your vet if you observe:

• 🚨 Excessive bleeding
• 💤 Lethargy or changes in sleep
• 🐾 Trouble breathing

Prognosis: What to Expect 📈

Prognosis depends on early detection, tumor size, and chosen treatment.

Favorable Outcomes:

• 🎯 Small, localized tumors detected early
• 💉 Complete surgical or radiation removal
• 👩‍⚕️ Regular follow-up and sun avoidance

Challenging Cases:

• 🧠 Deep or large tumors in difficult areas
• 🔁 Regrowth due to incomplete excision

While SCC rarely metastasizes (spreads elsewhere) early, it can become extremely destructive if ignored. Early action saves lives. 🛡️

Preventing Nasal SCC in Cats 🧴🌤️

Prevention is all about limiting sun exposure—especially for white cats or those with thin fur:

• 🌞 Keep sun-sensitive cats indoors during peak daylight
• 🧴 Use vet-approved feline sunscreen on exposed areas
• 🏡 Create shaded outdoor enclosures

Final Words from Dr Duncan Houston 👨‍⚕️

Nasal squamous cell carcinoma doesn’t have to be a death sentence. With prompt veterinary intervention, many cats go on to live happy, comfortable lives. If you notice any non-healing lesions or changes in your cat’s facial area, get them evaluated promptly. 🐱💗

For support with diagnosis, referrals, or treatment questions, contact Ask A Vet or download the Ask A Vet app today. Our veterinary experts are ready to guide you and your furry friend. 🐾📱