Petite diagnosed with cancer

Hi all,

Need a little advice from the cat world. One of our cats 12 tear old seems to be having some breathing issues. The symptoms seem to closely match an URI. Xrays by the Vet shows something in or near her lungs.

Is it possible that an URI could be diagnosed as cancer? What would you recommend?

Any thoughts at would be greatly appreciated.

Petite's Dad.

I really dont have anything to recommend but if you go on articles im sure you can find some good advice on health and ways to help this poor guy with his breathing. i hope her turns out to be okay. 

First, welcome to TCS.     I am really sorry it is under such circumstances.  Poor little Petite sounds like she is having a rough time.

What did the vet say about the x-ray abnormality?  Did he or she think it might be cancer?  And was any treatment recommended?  If you are asking if a URI could be misdiagnosed as cancer based on an x-ray, unfortunately I don't know the answer. I tried searching our site and google to look for reports of this happening but didn't find any, but that doesn't mean it doesn't happen.  

If you are unhappy with the diagnosis, can you seek out a second opinion?  The first vet could email the x-ray to a second vet so Petite didn't need a second x-ray. You could also ask for an ultrasound or MRI to get more information on the abnormality associated with the lungs.  Unfortunately, this is more expense, but it might answer your questions.

As for treatment at home -  try sitting with Petite in a steamy bathroom with a hot shower running.  Also, putting a humidifier in the room where she sleeps should help her breathe better. 

You might also consider giving Petite L-lysine supplements.  Lysine is often used to treat URIs and helps boost the immune system.  Check with your vet first to make sure this isn't contraindicated in Petite.  Below is some information that might be helpful for you.
[article="30716"]Nutritional Supplements For Cats Used By Our Members  [/article][article="22329"]Feline Herpes And Rhinotracheitis  [/article]
The second article contains a link to a very helpful thread about the use of L-lysine.

I hope this helps.  Also hope I have understood your question!  

BTW:  we would love to see some photos of Petite.  Here is the place to show her off!