Feline Lymphoma (malignant lymphoma, lymphosarcoma) is probably the single most common cancer that affects cats. This is a solid tumour of a type of white blood cell (lymphocyte) that is involved in immune responses...
In addition to being present in the blood, there are accumulations of lymphocytes that occur elsewhere in the body - either in discrete sites (lymph nodes or lymph 'glands') or within other tissues. Because of the wide distribution of lymphocytes in the body, lymphoma (malignant tumour of the cells) can occur at virtually any site, and also commonly occurs at multiple sites.
Common sites to be affected include the lymph nodes (distributed throughout the body), the chest cavity, the intestinal tract, the nose, the kidneys and the nervous system. Clinical signs vary according to the tissues that are affected. Both infection with leukaemia virus and immunodeficiency virus can be underlying or predisposing causes of lymphoma development.
Lymphoma in cats is often intestinal and it is therefore hard to find, even with a very careful examination and radiographs.
The feline diet
I see Lymphoma and Lymphosarcoma as the end result of a systemic and prolonged overload on the lymphatic system, the blood and the immune system in general, which may never have appeared without late 20th century feeding practices.
The people who approach me for Lymphatic Cancer Support treatments are often the most caring of owners and many of them have been trying to do the right thing by their cats.
Evidence suggests that even with the best of feeding and care, we are still faced with an increasing incidence of cancer in our cats and this bodes ill for our own species as well. It says to me that our environment is now so subverted that even healthy and careful members of both species are in trouble.
McDowells products
I prepare a specific herbal Lymphoma/ Lymphosarcoma Support mixture of concentrated herbal extracts of: Bladderack, Elecampane, Wormwood, Dandelion, Fenugreek, Golden Seal, Parsley, Rosehips and Violet Leaves, along with Oak, Olive, Pine, Water Violet, Walnut and Wild Oat from the Bach Flower Remedies.
This mix is given in conjunction with Maritime Pine Bark and the Feline Conditioning Mix.