執筆者 TCMVET | 2024年9月11日 | 犬の癌と腫瘍
犬の行動は、犬の気持ちを最も明確に表す指標の 1 つです。気分や行動の変化はストレスや加齢によるものとされることが多いですが、突然の行動の変化は、痛みや病気など、根本的な健康上の問題の兆候である可能性があります。特に、がんは、微妙ながらも重大な行動の変化を引き起こす可能性があり、これらの兆候を早期に認識することが、犬の健康にとって非常に重要です。
行動の変化が健康問題の兆候となる可能性
1. 突然の攻撃性やイライラ
かつては穏やかで人懐っこかった犬が攻撃的になったりイライラしたりし始めたら、それは痛みに対する反応かもしれません。犬は気分が悪いときは、特に痛みや敏感な部分に触れられるのを嫌がります。この不快感から、特に腫瘍などの内部の問題のある部分に触れられた場合、さらなる痛みを防ごうとして攻撃的になることがあります。
2. 身体接触を避ける
かつては抱っこされたりお腹を撫でられたりするのが大好きだった犬が、人間との接触を避けるようになることがあります。この行動は、不服従や拒絶の行動ではなく、犬が何かがおかしいと伝える手段です。内部腫瘍やその他の健康上の問題により、圧力が加えられると不快感を感じることがあり、犬は本能的に接触を避けて自分を守ろうとします。
3. 引きこもりと無気力
遊びや運動、社会的な交流に突然興味を示さなくなるのも、健康上の問題を示す行動の変化です。犬は体調が悪いと無気力になったり、静かで孤立した場所に逃げ込んだりすることがあります。特に年老いた犬の場合、時々疲れるのは普通のことですが、常に引っ込んでいるのは無視してはならない警告サインです。
4. 食欲不振
犬が食べ物を拒んだり、いつもより食べる量が減ったりするなど、食習慣の変化も、何かがおかしいかもしれないという行動上の手がかりです。がんの場合、内部の腫瘍が消化を妨げたり、吐き気を引き起こしたりして、食欲が減退することがあります。犬の食習慣が突然変わった場合は、獣医師に相談することが不可欠です。
これらの変更が重要な理由
犬は痛みや体調不良を私たちに伝えることができないため、行動で不快感を伝えます。残念ながら、多くの癌は外的な症状が明らかになるまで何ヶ月も隠れたままです。犬の行動の変化に細心の注意を払えば、癌などの深刻な病気が進行する前に、その兆候を早期に発見できるかもしれません。
行動の変化に気づいたらどうするか
犬の行動に突然の変化が見られたら、それを無視しないことが重要です。獣医に診察してもらい、徹底的な検査を受けましょう。早期発見により、特にがんやその他の重篤な病気が原因の場合は、治療が成功する可能性が高まります。
犬の行動の変化は、多くの場合、潜在的な健康問題の最初の、そして唯一の外的兆候です。突然の攻撃性、身体的接触の回避、無気力など、これらの変化は深刻に受け止める必要があります。注意深く観察し、獣医のアドバイスを求めることで、犬が必要なケアを受けられるようにすることができます。
執筆者 TCMVET | 2024年9月11日 | 犬の癌と腫瘍
ガンは犬の死亡原因の上位に挙げられます。フリント動物ガンセンターの報告によると、最大 50% の犬がこの病気で亡くなっています。人間と同様に、早期発見が治療成功の可能性を高める上で重要です。多くの症状は他の病気によって引き起こされることもありますが、早期に潜在的な警告サインに気付くことで、犬の予後に大きな違いが生まれる可能性があります。
犬の癌の主な兆候と症状
犬によく見られる癌の兆候をいくつか紹介します。これらの症状に気付いた場合は、深刻な病気の可能性を除外するために獣医の診察を受けることが重要です。
1. 衰弱または弱体化
突然の衰弱、無気力、または虚脱は、がんなどの深刻な健康問題の兆候である可能性があります。大型犬は特に脾臓の腫瘍になりやすく、これらの症状を引き起こす可能性があります。犬がすぐに回復したように見えても、すぐに獣医に診てもらうことが重要です。
2. 異常な腫れやしこり
しこりや腫れが消えなかったり、大きくなり続けたりする場合は、腫瘍の兆候である可能性があります。しこりのすべてが癌性というわけではありませんが、悪性腫瘍の可能性を排除するために、異常な腫瘍があれば検査を受けることが重要です。
3. 異常放電
出血、嘔吐、下痢、膿などの異常な分泌物は、がんなどの潜在的な健康問題の兆候である可能性があります。犬にこれらの症状が見られる場合は、獣医師に相談して診断を受けてください。
4. 体重減少または食欲不振
突然、食事に興味がなくなり、体重が著しく減少した場合は、深刻な病気の兆候である可能性があります。食事や生活習慣の変化など、明らかな原因がないのに犬の食欲が減退した場合は、獣医に相談してください。
5. 呼吸困難、排尿困難、排便困難、食事困難、嚥下困難
呼吸、食事、トイレなど、日常的な機能が犬にとって困難になると、より深刻な健康問題が示唆される可能性があります。腫瘍は気道、消化管、または尿路を塞ぐ可能性があるため、これらの症状を無視してはいけません。
6. 痛みや敏感さ
犬が触られることに敏感になったり、足を引きずったり、運動を避けたりする場合、痛みを感じている可能性があります。関節の問題や関節炎でも同様の症状が現れることがありますが、がんが根本的な原因である可能性がないかどうか調べる価値はあります。
これらの症状の多くは非癌性疾患に関連している可能性がありますが、犬の癌を早期に発見することは治療を成功させる上で非常に重要です。愛犬にこれらの兆候が見られたら、ためらわずに獣医の診察を受けてください。定期的な検査と愛犬の健康状態への注意を怠らないことが、大きな違いを生む可能性があります。
執筆者 TCMVET | 2024年9月11日 | 犬の癌と腫瘍
喫煙と受動喫煙が人間に有害であることは広く知られていますが、多くのペットの飼い主は、それが毛皮や羽毛の仲間であるペットに重大なリスクをもたらすことを認識していません。煙とその残留物にさらされたペットは、呼吸器系の問題、皮膚や目の炎症、さらには癌など、さまざまな健康上の問題にかかるリスクがはるかに高くなります。受動喫煙の危険からペットを守ることは、人間の健康を守ることと同じくらい重要です。
受動喫煙がペットに与える影響
犬だけでなく、すべてのペットは受動喫煙の有害な影響を受けやすいです。ペットが煙を吸い込んだり、煙の残留物が毛皮や羽毛、周囲の表面に付着したりすると、何千もの有害な化学物質にさらされることになります。ペットが毛づくろいをしたり、喫煙者の皮膚をなめたり、家の中で汚染された空気を吸ったりするたびに、このような曝露が起こります。
有害な残留物が環境に残る
喫煙に関してあまり知られていない事実の 1 つは、煙が消えた後でも、有害な残留物が衣類、カーペット、家具、ペットの毛や羽に残るということです。この粘着性のある油性の残留物には 7,000 種類以上の化学物質が含まれており、その一部は空気中に再放出されたり、ペットが摂取したりする可能性があります。つまり、喫煙している家庭のペットは毎日危険な毒素にさらされていることになります。
犬と猫の健康リスク
ペットの種類や曝露レベルに応じて、ペットが直面する健康リスクは異なります。
1. 犬
- 受動喫煙にさらされた犬は、禁煙環境にいる犬に比べて肺がんや鼻がんを発症する可能性が 2 倍高くなります。
- グレイハウンド、ボルゾイ、ドーベルマンピンシャーなどの鼻の長い犬種は、煙の粒子が鼻腔に閉じ込められる可能性があるため、鼻がんを発症するリスクが高くなります。
- パグ、ブルドッグ、ビーグル、ブリタニースパニエルなどの短鼻および中鼻の犬種は、鼻腔が短いため、より多くの煙が肺に到達するため、肺がんになるリスクが高くなります。
2. 猫
- 喫煙環境にさらされた猫は、がん、特に口腔がんやリンパ腫と診断される可能性が 3 倍高くなります。リスクが高まるのは、猫が頻繁に毛づくろいをし、毛に付着した煙の残留物を摂取するためです。
受動喫煙からペットを守る
受動喫煙の有害な影響からペットを守る最善の方法は、禁煙環境を維持することです。喫煙する場合は、屋外でペットから離れた場所で喫煙し、ペットが過ごす場所での喫煙は避けてください。家、家具、ペットの寝具を定期的に掃除することで、有害な煙の残留物への曝露を最小限に抑えることもできます。これらの手順を踏むことで、愛するペットにとってより健康的で安全な環境を確保できます。
執筆者 TCMVET | 2024年9月10日 | 犬の癌と腫瘍
Weight gain in dogs is often attributed to overeating or lack of exercise, but when it’s paired with an enlarged abdomen, it could be a sign of something more serious. Abdominal tumors are a relatively common cause of rapid weight gain and bloating in dogs, and early detection is key to successful treatment. In this article, we’ll explore the potential causes behind an enlarged abdomen and weight gain in dogs, and why monitoring these changes is crucial for your pet’s health.
What Causes Weight Gain and an Enlarged Abdomen in Dogs?
Weight gain in dogs can happen for a variety of reasons, ranging from simple overeating to more serious underlying health issues. When you notice your dog’s belly becoming visibly larger and their weight increasing rapidly, it’s important to look deeper into the potential causes.
Some possible reasons include:
- Overeating and Lack of Exercise: The most common cause of weight gain is excessive calorie intake paired with insufficient physical activity. However, this typically leads to gradual weight gain rather than a rapid change in weight or belly size.
- Hypothyroidism: A condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, leading to a slower metabolism. Dogs with hypothyroidism may gain weight quickly despite eating the same amount of food.
- Fluid Retention: Certain medical conditions can cause fluid to build up in your dog’s abdomen, leading to a bloated appearance. Heart disease, liver disease, or kidney failure can all cause fluid accumulation (ascites) in the abdominal cavity.
- Pregnancy: In unspayed female dogs, weight gain and an enlarged belly could be due to pregnancy.
- Abdominal Tumors: Perhaps the most concerning cause of a rapidly enlarging abdomen is an abdominal tumor. These tumors can grow quickly and cause your dog’s belly to swell. In some cases, the tumor itself increases your dog’s weight, even though they may be losing muscle mass elsewhere.
Abdominal Tumors and Cancer in Dogs
Abdominal tumors are one of the more serious causes of an enlarged belly in dogs. These tumors can form on the liver, spleen, kidneys, or other organs within the abdominal cavity. Some of the most common cancers that result in abdominal tumors include:
- 血管肉腫: A type of cancer that affects blood vessels and often develops on the spleen or liver.
- リンパ腫: A cancer of the lymphatic system that can cause swelling in the abdomen.
- Liver Tumors: Tumors in the liver can cause significant swelling and weight gain due to fluid retention or the growth of the tumor itself.
Abdominal tumors can lead to rapid weight gain due to fluid buildup or the mass of the tumor, and in some cases, they may cause discomfort, loss of appetite, and lethargy. Unfortunately, cancer is often not detected until the tumor has grown large enough to be visible, which is why it’s essential to monitor changes in your dog’s weight and belly size closely.
Other Symptoms to Watch For
In addition to weight gain and a swollen belly, there are other signs that may indicate a more serious issue like cancer:
- Lack of appetite: Despite gaining weight, your dog may seem uninterested in food.
- 無気力: A noticeable decrease in energy or unwillingness to exercise.
- Discomfort or pain: Your dog may seem uncomfortable when their belly is touched or show signs of pain when moving.
- Vomiting or diarrhea: Digestive issues can also be a sign of tumors or other abdominal conditions.
When to See a Vet
If your dog is experiencing rapid weight gain, an enlarged abdomen, or any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. Your veterinarian will likely perform a physical examination, blood tests, and possibly imaging such as X-rays or ultrasounds to determine the cause of the weight gain and swelling.
Early detection is critical in managing abdominal tumors and other conditions, so don’t wait to address these changes in your dog’s health.
How to Help Your Dog
If your dog is diagnosed with an abdominal tumor or other serious condition, your veterinarian will discuss the available treatment options. These may include surgery, chemotherapy, or palliative care depending on the type and stage of the disease.
In the meantime, keep an eye on your dog’s diet and exercise levels. While cancer and other medical conditions may cause weight gain, maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise routine is still important for overall health.
Weight gain paired with an enlarged abdomen in dogs is not something to take lightly, especially when it occurs rapidly. While many cases may be due to overeating or other less serious conditions, the possibility of abdominal tumors or cancer should not be ignored. Regular checkups and early intervention are key to ensuring your dog’s well-being and longevity. If you notice any sudden changes in your dog’s weight or belly size, make sure to consult your vet immediately.
執筆者 TCMVET | 2024年9月10日 | 犬の癌と腫瘍
As dogs age, it’s normal for them to slow down a bit. However, a sudden or noticeable decrease in your dog’s activity level could be a sign that something is wrong. One potential cause behind this lethargy is cancer, which can greatly affect a dog’s energy and overall well-being. Understanding the link between changes in activity levels and potential health issues is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment.
Sudden Lethargy: When to Be Concerned
Lethargy is often one of the first signs that something is wrong with your dog’s health. Dogs that are normally playful and energetic may suddenly become uninterested in exercise, walks, or playtime. While it’s true that older dogs tend to slow down naturally, a significant or rapid decline in energy levels isn’t something to ignore.
Here are some signs to watch for:
- Reduced interest in physical activities such as running, fetching, or playing.
- Sleeping more than usual or appearing tired even after mild exertion.
- Reluctance to go for walks or engage in their usual routines.
- Difficulty getting up or moving around, especially when there is no obvious injury.
These changes might not just be related to aging. In fact, if the lethargy comes on quickly or without a clear cause, it could be an indicator of a more serious issue, such as cancer.
Cancer and Its Impact on Activity Level
Cancer can cause a variety of symptoms in dogs, one of which is a marked change in their activity level. As cancer progresses, the disease may cause discomfort, fatigue, or even pain, making your dog less willing or able to move. Tumors, inflammation, and organ dysfunction can all contribute to decreased energy and a lack of interest in regular activities.
Dogs suffering from cancer may also exhibit other signs such as weight loss, loss of appetite, or unusual lumps. When these symptoms occur alongside lethargy, it’s important to consult a veterinarian for a thorough examination.
Other Causes of Lethargy in Dogs
While cancer is a serious concern, it’s important to remember that lethargy can also be caused by a range of other conditions. Some potential reasons include:
- Infections or illnesses such as viral or bacterial infections.
- Pain from arthritis or joint issues.
- Heart problems that reduce your dog’s stamina.
- Metabolic disorders such as hypothyroidism or diabetes.
- Digestive issues that leave your dog feeling unwell.
Because lethargy is a symptom of many different health conditions, it’s essential to have your dog checked by a vet to determine the exact cause.
獣医にかかる時期
If you notice that your dog’s activity level has changed suddenly or dramatically, it’s time to consult with your veterinarian. The earlier you catch potential health issues, the better the chance for successful treatment, especially in the case of cancer.
Your vet will likely perform a physical exam, run diagnostic tests such as blood work, and possibly recommend imaging like X-rays or ultrasounds to determine the underlying cause of your dog’s lethargy. If cancer is detected, your vet will discuss the available treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, or palliative care, depending on the type and stage of the disease.
How to Support Your Dog
Whether your dog’s lethargy is due to cancer, aging, or another medical condition, there are ways you can help support their energy levels and overall well-being:
- Ensure a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs.
- Keep them hydrated, as dehydration can exacerbate fatigue.
- Provide a comfortable resting space to help them recover their strength.
- Consult with your vet about appropriate supplements or medications to help manage pain or discomfort.
A sudden change in your dog’s activity level can be a red flag for underlying health issues, including cancer. While it’s natural for dogs to slow down as they age, an unexplained decrease in energy or lethargy warrants a trip to the vet. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing serious conditions, so keeping an eye on your dog’s behavior can help ensure their health and happiness.
執筆者 TCMVET | 2024年9月10日 | 犬の癌と腫瘍
Chaga mushroom, a peculiar fungus found on birch trees in cold climates, has been gaining popularity as a potential natural remedy for various health issues, including cancer. While its rough, blackened appearance might seem unattractive, its health benefits have sparked interest in both human and veterinary medicine. Could this strange mushroom be a miracle cure for canine cancer?
What is Chaga Mushroom?
Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is a parasitic fungus that primarily grows on birch trees in northern regions such as Siberia, Alaska, and Canada. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly in Russia and Eastern Europe, where it’s revered for its ability to boost the immune system, fight inflammation, and support overall health.
Rich in antioxidants, Chaga contains compounds like polysaccharides, beta-glucans, and triterpenoids, all of which contribute to its potential healing properties. In humans, Chaga is used to enhance immune function and has been investigated for its anti-cancer properties. But how does it work for dogs?
Chaga Mushroom and Canine Cancer
Canine cancer is a devastating diagnosis for any pet owner. Traditional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation often come with significant side effects, leading many dog owners to seek alternative or supplementary therapies. This is where Chaga mushroom comes in.
1. Immune System Boosting: One of Chaga’s primary benefits is its ability to enhance immune system function. The beta-glucans in Chaga stimulate the immune response, helping the body to fight cancer cells more effectively. For dogs undergoing cancer treatment, a stronger immune system can support recovery and improve overall well-being.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Chronic inflammation is linked to cancer growth in both humans and animals. Chaga’s powerful anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce the inflammation associated with cancer, potentially slowing down tumor progression in dogs.
3. Antioxidants for Fighting Free Radicals: Chaga is packed with antioxidants, particularly superoxide dismutase (SOD), which helps neutralize free radicals. Free radicals can damage cells and contribute to cancer development, so reducing their impact may protect your dog’s health.
Is Chaga Safe for Dogs?
While Chaga mushroom shows promise as a natural remedy for canine cancer, it’s important to consult your veterinarian before adding any supplements to your dog’s diet. Each dog is unique, and what works for one may not be suitable for another, especially if your dog is undergoing cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiation.
Chaga supplements for dogs are available in various forms, including powders and tinctures. Always ensure the product is sourced from high-quality, organic Chaga to avoid contamination with harmful substances. Additionally, follow dosage recommendations carefully to prevent potential side effects such as digestive upset or liver strain.
How to Administer Chaga to Dogs
If your veterinarian approves Chaga as part of your dog’s cancer care plan, you can typically add it to their food or administer it in tincture form. Many dog owners report improvements in their dogs’ energy levels, appetite, and overall health after introducing Chaga into their diet.
Chaga mushroom is not a magical cure-all, but it holds significant potential as a complementary treatment for canine cancer. Its immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties make it a promising natural remedy for supporting dogs through their cancer journey. However, always work closely with your veterinarian to ensure that Chaga is safe and appropriate for your pet’s specific needs.
JA 
EN 
EN_GB 
ES 
NL 
PL 
PT 
IT 
FR 
DE 
KO 
ZH 