🧠 Vet’s Guide to Brain Tumors in Cats: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment in 2025 🐾

By Dr Duncan Houston BVSc

Brain tumors in cats, though relatively rare, are serious conditions that can significantly impact a feline's quality of life. As a veterinarian practicing in Australia, I aim to provide cat owners with up-to-date information on the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of brain tumors in 2025.

🔬 Understanding Brain Tumors in Cats

Brain tumors in cats can be classified into two main categories:

• 🐾 Primary Brain Tumors: These originate within the brain tissue itself. Examples include meningiomas, gliomas, and astrocytomas.
• 🐾 Secondary (Metastatic) Brain Tumors: These originate elsewhere in the body and spread to the brain. Common sources include lymphoma and nasal tumors.

🧬 Causes of Brain Tumors

The exact causes of brain tumors in cats are not fully understood, but several factors may contribute:

• 🐾 Age: Older cats are more susceptible.
• 🐾 Genetics: Certain breeds may have a predisposition.
• 🐾 Environmental Factors: Exposure to toxins or radiation.
• 🐾 Viral Infections: Viruses like Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) have been linked to certain cancers.

🐱 Recognizing Symptoms

Symptoms can vary depending on the tumor's location and size but may include:

• 🐾 Seizures
• 🐾 Behavioral changes
• 🐾 Circling or head pressing
• 🐾 Loss of balance or coordination
• 🐾 Vision problems or blindness
• 🐾 Head tilt
• 🐾 Lethargy
• 🐾 Vomiting
• 🐾 Changes in appetite

🧪 Diagnosis

Diagnosing a brain tumor involves several steps:

• 🐾 Neurological Examination: Assessing reflexes, coordination, and other neurological functions.
• 🐾 Imaging: MRI or CT scans to visualize the brain and identify tumors.
• 🐾 Blood Tests: To check for underlying conditions or infections.
• 🐾 Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Analysis: May help in diagnosing certain types of tumors.
• 🐾 Biopsy: In some cases, a tissue sample may be necessary for definitive diagnosis.

💊 Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type, location, and size of the tumor, as well as the overall health of the cat:

• 🐾 Surgery: Removal of the tumor when feasible, especially for accessible tumors like meningiomas.
• 🐾 Radiation Therapy: Used to shrink or control the growth of tumors, often in conjunction with surgery.
• 🐾 Chemotherapy: May be effective for certain types of tumors, such as lymphoma.
• 🐾 Medications: Anti-seizure medications, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and pain management drugs.
• 🐾 Palliative Care: Focuses on maintaining quality of life when curative treatment isn't possible.

🛡️ Prevention Strategies

While not all brain tumors can be prevented, certain measures may reduce risk:

• 🐾 Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Early detection of health issues.
• 🐾 Vaccinations: Protect against viruses like FeLV and FIV.
• 🐾 Indoor Living: Reduces exposure to environmental toxins and infectious agents.
• 🐾 Proper Nutrition: Supports overall health and immune function.

📍 Considerations for Australian Cat Owners

In Australia, unique environmental factors and regional diseases may influence the risk of brain tumors. It's essential to consult with local veterinarians who are familiar with area-specific risks and preventive measures.

📱 Stay Informed with Ask A Vet

For personalized advice and support, consider downloading the Ask A Vet app. Our platform connects you with licensed veterinarians for real-time consultations, helping you keep your feline friend healthy and happy.

🐾 Download the Ask A Vet app today and ensure your cat's well-being is always a tap away! 📲