Leukemia is a type of cancer that results from the proliferation of cancerous blood cells in the bone marrow. The cause of leukemia in dogs is unknown, although in humans, exposure to certain chemicals, treatment with chemotherapy drugs, and radiation therapy have all been implicated in causing leukemia.

Leukemia can be classified in many different ways, based on the specific type of blood cell which is involved. The most common form of leukemia seen in cats and dogs is lymphocytic leukemia, because of the involvement of lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Lymphocytic leukemia can be further broken down into acute (sudden onset) and chronic (long term illness) forms.

The impact of leukemia on your pet can vary with the form of the disease. The different forms have differing clinical presentations and each form carries a different prognosis for your pet.

What to Watch For

Loss of appetite

Weight loss

Pale gums

Lethargy

Bleeding or bruising

Vomiting

Diarrhea

Lameness

Increased thirst and urination

Abnormal behavior

Seizures

General malaise

Diagnosis

Complete history and physical exam

Complete blood count (CBC)

Reticulocyte count

Biochemical profile

Urine analysis

Chest radiographs (x-rays)

Abdominal radiographs or ultrasound exam

Bone marrow aspirate

Fine needle aspirate of abdominal organs or lymph nodes

Treatment

Chemotherapy

Blood transfusions if patients are severely anemic (low red blood cell count)

Antibiotics to treat secondary infections

General supportive care

Home Care and Prevention

Give all medications as directed. Many patients with leukemia are predisposed to secondary infections due to a compromised immune system. Exposure to animals outside of the household should be minimized as much as possible.

There are no specific measures to prevent leukemia in your pet.