Lymphoma in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
BSc
BVM&S
FHEA
Updated October 16, 2025
8 min read

Overview

Symptoms

Risk

Diagnosis

Vet treatment

Home treatment

Prevention

When to worry

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Lymphoma in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
BSc
BVM&S
FHEA
Updated October 16, 2025
8 min read

Lymphoma in cats is a cancer of their body's immune defence cells. It’s one of the most common types of cancer, affecting up to 1 in 2000 cats every year. Lymphoma in cats is rarely curable. Treatment aims to control the cancer and to improve the symptoms. Lymphoma can develop in any cat, but it’s most likely in older cats, males and unvaccinated cats.

Lymphoma in cats happens when lymphocytes start to multiply out of control. Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell, part of the body's immune defence system. There are different types of lymphoma in cats, which affect different parts of the body. Symptoms will depend on the location and spread of the cancer. Life expectancy with treatment is on average 6-12 months. Life expectancy depends on the type of lymphoma, stage and response to treatment. Outlook for remission is best when the lymphoma is identified and treated promptly. Call a vet as soon as possible if you’re worried your cat may have symptoms of lymphoma.

What is lymphoma in cats? >What is lymphoma in cats? [Overview

What are the symptoms of lymphoma in cats? >What are the symptoms of lymphoma in cats? [Symptoms

Which cats are most at risk of getting lymphoma >Which cats are most at risk of getting lymphoma [Risk

How do vets diagnose lymphoma in cats? >How do vets diagnose lymphoma in cats? [Diagnosis

How can vets treat lymphoma in cats? >How can vets treat lymphoma in cats? [Vet treatment

How to care for a cat with lymphoma at home >How to care for a cat with lymphoma at home [Home treatment

Can lymphoma in cats be prevented? >Can lymphoma in cats be prevented? [Prevention

When to worry about your cat with lymphoma >When to worry about your cat with lymphoma [When to worry

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