Brain Tumors in Cats: Causes, Signs, Diagnosis, and Vet Care Options
Brain tumors in cats are a rare yet serious condition caused by abnormal cell growth within the healthy brain tissue. While this diagnosis can be daunting, understanding it will help you and your veterinarian care for your cat.
In this article, we will cover important things to know about brain tumors in cats, including clinical signs, causes, diagnostic methods, veterinary care options, and how to keep your cat comfortable at home.
(If you'd like a broader overview, please refer to our complete guide to common cancers in cats.)
What are Feline Brain Tumors?
Brain tumors in cats are abnormal cell growths that develop in the brain or nearby tissues, including the protective membranes of the brain and spinal cord.
These tumors are classified as either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous, with the potential to spread to other parts of the body).
Brain tumors in cats are further categorized into two types: primary and secondary brain tumors.
Primary brain tumors originated in the brain.
Secondary brain tumors, on the other hand, occur when a tumor originates in another part of the body and metastasizes (spreads) to the brain.
Primary Brain Tumors in Cats: A Quick Overview
Cats can develop several types of primary brain tumors, with the most common including meningioma, glioma, lymphosarcoma (also called lymphoma), choroid plexus papilloma, and pituitary tumors. In the following sections, we will take a closer look at each of these.
Meningioma
Meningioma, the most common primary brain tumor in cats, arises in the meninges (the membranes protecting the brain and spinal cord).
Typically benign, these slow-growing tumors are solitary and well-defined, distinct from surrounding brain tissue. This condition is typically managed through surgical removal when surgery is appropriate.
As with canine meningiomas, this most common brain tumor in cats is classified into three types based on histological grading:
- Grade I (low-grade, benign): The most commonly diagnosed type, with studies indicating that 94% of enrolled cats had low-grade meningiomas.
- Grade II (intermediate-grade, atypical)
- Grade III (high-grade, anaplastic or malignant)
Low-grade meningioma is the least aggressive form and is typically considered benign, as it does not infiltrate the neuroparenchyma or spread to other tissues. In contrast, high-grade meningiomas, while rare in cats, can metastasize to the lungs.
Glioma
Gliomas are tumors that arise in the central nervous system from glial cells. In cats, the three types of gliomas include astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, and the less common ependymomas.
Astrocytomas are common in dogs but rare in cats. These highly malignant tumors originate from astrocytic cells, which play a protective role for nerve cells.
These tumors most commonly occur in the piriform lobe of normal brain tissue, the convexity of the cerebral hemisphere, the thalamus-hypothalamus region, and the midbrain. Occasionally, they may also develop in the cerebellum or spinal cord.
Lymphosarcoma (lymphoma)
Primary brain lymphoma is a rare condition in cats, accounting for up to 3% of all primary central nervous system cancers. Although more common in young cats, it can also affect older cats over 9 years of age.
Choroid plexus papilloma
Choroid plexus papillomas develop in the brain's ventricular system, which produces cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This rare tumor accounts for just 0.4% of all intracranial tumors in cats and often causes sudden seizure activity.
Pituitary tumors
Pituitary tumors develop in the pituitary gland, a small organ at the brain's base that produces essential hormones. These tumors can disrupt hormone production and pressure surrounding nerves, significantly impacting a cat's quality of life and causing various symptoms.
The most common pituitary tumor in cats affects the region responsible for producing growth hormones. Some cats may develop tumors that disrupt adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) production, leading to Cushing's disease.
Pituitary-dependent Cushing's syndrome occurs when excessive cortisol, the stress hormone, is released into the bloodstream. This condition is very rare in cats.
A Brief Guide to Secondary Tumors of the Brain in Cats
Secondary brain tumors originate in other parts of the body and spread to the brain through metastasis. This process occurs when cells from metastatic tumors detach from the primary site and travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system, forming growths in the brain.
In cats, as in dogs, aggressive cancers like melanoma, mammary carcinoma, and hemangiosarcoma can metastasize to the brain.
What Causes Feline Brain Tumors?
While the exact causes of brain tumors in cats remain unknown, several factors may increase the risk. These include abnormalities in the brain's pH, where the tissue becomes too acidic or alkaline, as well as metabolic imbalances and conditions like cerebral edema caused by injuries or diseases.
Age is another factor, with older cats being more prone to brain tumors. Additionally, certain breeds, such as the Scottish Shorthair and Siamese, are more predisposed to developing meningiomas.
What are the Clinical Signs and Symptoms of Cat Brain Tumors?
Here is a brief summary of the common symptoms associated with brain tumors in cats. Your cat may have a brain tumor if they exhibit the following signs:
- Vacant episodes (staring into space)
- Seizures
- Walking in circles
- Head tilt
- Behavioral changes (such as increased aggressiveness)
- Incoordination
Additionally, some cats may display increased thirst, appetite, and excessive urination.
Other general clinical signs may also occur, including:
- Lethargy
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Depression
If your cat is showing any of these symptoms, it is a clear indication that something is wrong. Promptly consult a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate veterinary care. Early detection of brain tumors is highly beneficial.
How Do Vets Diagnose Brain Tumors in Cats?
Diagnosing brain tumors in cats is a complex process that requires a combination of methods. These include a general evaluation, imaging techniques, and laboratory tests.
The process typically begins with a thorough physical examination, during which the veterinarian assesses neurological signs such as behavioral changes, coordination issues, and other nervous system abnormalities. The affected cat's medical history may also be discussed.
Advanced imaging methods, such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Computed Tomography (CT) scans, are used to confirm the presence of a tumor.
These techniques provide detailed brain images to locate the tumor and evaluate its size and impact on surrounding structures. Additionally, the veterinarian may recommend thoracic X-rays to determine if the cancer has spread to the lungs, as standard radiography cannot penetrate the skull to visualize the brain.
The veterinarian may also recommend blood tests to rule out other conditions or to monitor your cat's general condition.
In some cases, a biopsy is needed to identify the tumor type. This involves removing part of the tumor (incisional biopsy) or the entire tumor (excisional biopsy). The sample is then analyzed through histopathology to determine the tumor type and its aggressiveness.
Some veterinarians may recommend encephalography (EEG) or cerebrospinal fluid analysis. EEG measures the brain's electrical activity and, though less commonly used, can help detect abnormalities like seizures associated with brain tumors.
As previously noted, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord from injury. CSF analysis (via a process called spinal tap) can help rule out inflammatory diseases, and elevated protein levels in the fluid are often seen in cats with brain tumors.
Veterinary Care Options for Cat Brain Tumors
Veterinary care for brain tumors in cats depends on factors like the tumor's type, location, size, and the cat's overall condition. It is a complex process that may involve various options, used alone or in combination, such as:
Surgical removal
This method, often preferred for meningiomas, involves the partial or total removal of brain tumors to reduce pressure on the brain and alleviate symptoms like seizures or balance issues.
However, not all tumors are operable, particularly those in sensitive or hard-to-reach areas. Tumors deep within brain tissue carry a risk of damaging healthy tissue during removal, potentially leading to complications.
Radiation therapy (radiotherapy)
This option is discussed when surgical removal of the tumor is not possible. Some brain tumors are extremely difficult to access surgically.In some cases, radiotherapy is combined with surgery to help manage tumors that cannot be completely removed. Possible side effects include fatigue and loss of appetite.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves medications that veterinarians may use to help manage tumor cells. While chemotherapy is not always effective for primary brain tumors, it is typically discussed for secondary tumors or to help manage growth.
Targeted chemotherapy is sometimes discussed for challenging feline brain tumors. This method uses a small catheter inserted directly into the tumor to deliver chemotherapy drugs gradually over several hours.
Palliative care
This focuses on improving the cat's quality of life when curative options are not possible. These may include medications to help with comfort, anti-inflammatories to reduce swelling, and corticosteroids to reduce intracranial pressure.
Ongoing care and monitoring
Cats with brain tumors require close, ongoing monitoring. Veterinarians will periodically assess the cat's condition through regular clinical examinations. Management of brain tumors in cats is tailored to each case. Often, a combination approach can provide the best results under veterinary guidance.
Supportive Care at Home for Cats With Brain Tumors
Brain tumors need a care plan from your veterinarian or a veterinary neurologist or oncologist. Alongside that plan, there is a lot you can do at home to keep your cat safe and comfortable:
- Make the home safe: Block stairs and high perches, and keep food, water and the litter box on one level if your cat is unsteady.
- Know what to do in a seizure: Keep your cat away from edges and objects, don't put anything in their mouth, time the episode, and call your vet.
- Comfort first: Give your cat a soft, warm, quiet resting spot with easy access to water, food and the litter box.
- Keep them eating: Offer small, frequent, appealing meals. A cat that stops eating can develop serious liver problems quickly, so tell your vet if your cat eats little or nothing for more than a day.
- Track changes: Note energy, appetite, breathing, grooming, signs of pain and any new lumps, and share them at each vet visit.
- Ask before adding anything: Supplements, herbs and CBD can interact with chemotherapy and other medications, so check with your vet or oncologist first.
- Know the red flags: Open-mouth breathing, hiding, repeated vomiting, or not eating for 24 hours means call your vet right away.
Natural immune support alongside veterinary care
Many pet parents also look for natural options that can sit alongside conventional veterinary care. If you are looking for a natural product for daily wellness support, you can learn more about PiptoPet.
PiptoPet is a birch-polypore formula (Fomitopsis betulina) designed to support a healthy immune response in cats and dogs. It is meant to complement your veterinarian's care plan, not replace diagnosis, surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or other veterinary care. Talk with your veterinarian before adding anything new to your cat's routine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long can a cat live with a brain tumor?
Cats diagnosed with primary brain tumors have a mean survival time of 2 to 6 months with palliative care. However, if the tumor is completely removed via surgery, their survival may extend to 1 to 2 years. In contrast, cats with secondary brain cancer typically survive about a month.
How common are brain tumors in older cats?
Brain tumors are relatively uncommon in cats, but many cases may go undiagnosed, often due to financial constraints. They are more frequently seen in older cats (over 9 to 10 years old), though younger cats can also be affected.
How can you tell if a cat has a brain tumor?
The clinical signs of brain tumors in felines often include behavioral changes, seizures, vision loss, severe lethargy, depression, disorientation, and walking in circles.
Make sure you schedule an online consultation if you want to talk through supportive wellness options with our team.
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