By Courtney Prue | June 8, 2025

Lymphoma in Cats: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

What is lymphoma in cats?

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that play a vital role in the immune system. Lymphoma is a common type of cancer in cats, accounting for about a third of all feline cancers. It can affect various organs in the body, including the lymph nodes, spleen, liver, and bone marrow. Approximately 50 to 70% of feline lymphoma affects the gastrointestinal tract, often mimicking the signs of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Early detection and treatment can help manage the symptoms and improve your cat’s quality of life.

How do cats get lymphoma?  

Unfortunately, the exact cause of lymphoma in cats is unknown. However, there are several risk factors that have been associated with the disease, including:

•   Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) & feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV): Cats infected with these viruses are at a higher risk of developing lymphoma.
•   Environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental factors, such as pesticides and herbicides, may increase the risk of developing lymphoma.

What are the first signs of lymphoma in cats?  

The symptoms of lymphoma in cats can vary depending on the location and extent of the cancer. They can also be very vague and often mimic other common diseases.

Early signs include:

•   Vomiting
•   Diarrhea
•   Weight loss
•   Loss of appetite
•   Lethargy
•   Increased thirst or urination

More advanced signs include:

•   Enlarged lymph nodes
•   Difficulty breathing
•   Dehydration
•   Pale gums
•   Abdominal pain or swelling

If you notice any of these symptoms in your feline friend, it’s important to take them to a veterinarian for diagnosis. Don’t hesitate to call your veterinarian, our team or an emergency veterinary clinic for guidance on how to proceed.

Can my lymphoma cat decline suddenly?

It is important to know the symptoms that indicate a medical emergency in cats with lymphoma, as prompt veterinary attention can be life-saving. Here are some symptoms to watch out for:

• Difficulty breathing: This can manifest as panting, open-mouthed breathing, or rapid breathing. If your cat is struggling to breathe, it is a medical emergency.
• Bluish or pale gums: This can be a sign of poor oxygenation and should be evaluated by a veterinarian immediately.
• Weakness or collapse: This may indicate poor blood flow to vital organs and requires immediate veterinary attention.
• Loss of consciousness: This can occur suddenly and may be a sign of cardiac arrest, which requires immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
• Seizures: This involves either full body or focal muscle spasms usually with loss of consciousness. 

If you observe any of these symptoms, seeking immediate veterinary attention is important. Time is critical in emergencies, and a delay in treatment can have serious consequences for your cat’s health. Don’t hesitate to call your veterinarian, our team or an emergency veterinary clinic for guidance on how to proceed.

How is lymphoma diagnosed in cats?  

Diagnosing lymphoma in cats typically involves a combination of physical examination, blood tests, imaging tests (such as X-rays, ultrasound, or CT scans), and biopsy. The biopsy is the most definitive test for lymphoma, as it allows the veterinarian to examine the cells under a microscope and determine the type and stage.

Is lymphoma in cats treatable?  

There are several treatment options available that can help manage the symptoms and improve your cat’s quality of life. The most common treatment for lymphoma in cats is chemotherapy. Chemotherapy can be given orally or intravenously, and it works by killing cancer cells and shrinking tumours. However, chemotherapy is not always possible or appropriate. Always discuss this with your veterinarian or veterinary oncologist.

Other medications and treatments can be used to manage the symptoms of lymphoma. These include:

•   Steroids such as prednisolone
•   Appetite stimulants
•   Pain medications
•   Fluid therapy

The medical management of lymphoma can be confusing and overwhelming. Get in touch with our team today for a personalised discussion. 

What can I do at home to help my cat with lymphoma?

In addition to medical treatment, there are several things you can do at home to help your cat manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. These include:

•   Providing a comfortable and quiet place for them to rest
•   Encouraging your cat to eat by offering high-quality, delicious food
•   Keeping them hydrated by offering plenty of fresh water, or mixing water with their food
•   Giving them plenty of love and attention
•   Minimising stressors in the environment
•   Administering medication as prescribed by your veterinarian

How long do cats live after lymphoma diagnosis?

The prognosis for cats with lymphoma varies depending on the type and stage of the disease. Low-grade gastrointestinal lymphoma has a more favourable prognosis, with more than 70% of cats achieving remission and living a good quality of life for two to three years. In contrast, high-grade gastrointestinal lymphoma has a less favourable prognosis, with less than 50% of cats achieving remission and a survival time of two to nine months.

End-of-Life Care Tips

If your beloved cat’s lymphoma has progressed to a point where treatment is no longer effective,  it’s important to consider end-of-life care options, including possibly putting your cat to sleep (euthanasia). This can be an overwhelming and distressing thing to even think about. Rest Your Paws is here to support you and provide compassionate care for your beloved pet throughout their journey.

Here are some end-of-life care tips for your cat:

• Keep them hydrated and well-nourished with some delicious food
• Spend quality time with them, making the most of every moment, such as with a bucket list.
• Offer a calm and peaceful environment, free from stressors that can exacerbate symptoms
• Administer medications as prescribed, including for pain management and symptom relief
• Provide a warm and comfortable space for your cat to rest and sleep, with easy access to food, water, and a litter box
• Monitor your cat’s breathing, heart rate, and overall condition, and seek veterinary attention if necessary
• Evaluate their pain regularly and work with your veterinarian or our team to reduce pain.
• Evaluate their quality of life regularly, or reach out to a palliative care vet to help you with this. 
• Consult our End of Life Care Pack to get prepared to put your cat to sleep.
• Track good days and bad days on our Quality of Life Assessment Calendar.

Please know that we are here to support you every step of the way. We understand that this is a challenging time for you and your family, and we are committed to providing you with the guidance and care that you and your furry friend deserve. If you want to learn more about putting your pet to sleep, cat euthanasia at home, options to put your pet down at home, costs of euthanasia at home or what it looks like to put your pet to sleep at home, call us on 0422 157 675 or visit our website.

Lymphoma in cats is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease. At Rest Your Paws, we understand that a diagnosis of lymphoma in your purrfect companion can be overwhelming. However, with the right information and support, you can provide your pet with the best possible care throughout its journey. With appropriate treatment and management, cats with lymphoma can achieve a good quality of life and live longer, fulfilling lives. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your cat receives the appropriate treatment and care for their specific case of lymphoma.  Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns – we are here to help.

Rest Your Paws

We offer in-home pet euthanasia for dogs, cats and other pets. Say goodbye with peace and dignity to your beloved pet. Professional and experienced end-of-life support.