The question of whether or not pets can develop mesothelioma has been raised many times by people who have become aware of the disease in a family member or themselves. Dogs and cats can develop all sorts of medical conditions, from the common cold to cancers, and pet owners have sometimes noticed symptoms suggesting mesothelioma in their pets:

• breathing problems
• coughing
• difficulty exercising

These symptoms may indicate something relatively benign, or they may signal a serious disease like mesothelioma.

It Can Happen

Unfortunately, it is possible for mesothelioma to strike pets — much more often in dogs than in cats, and more often in male dogs and certain breeds: Irish Setters, German Shepherds, and Bouvier des Flandres. However, any animal that is exposed to asbestos can also develop mesothelioma, the cancer that starts with asbestos fibers becoming lodged in the lungs. The main and possibly sole cause of mesothelioma is asbestos.

How Mesothelioma Happens in Pets

Just as a human who has never worked with asbestos products can suffer significant asbestos exposure — often when a spouse or parent brings asbestos fibers home on their clothing — an animal can inhale or even lick asbestos fibers that are present on clothing, or it can step in asbestos fibers at a building site or even in its home. It's always a good idea to keep your pets away from areas with unknown or unsafe materials.

What You Can Do

If you suspect that mesothelioma has stricken your pet, take him or her to a veterinarian for testing. The vet can use x-ray imaging, CT scanning or ultrasound in addition to asking you for your pet's medical history. Be sure to tell the vet of any possible exposure to asbestos or other toxins that your pet may have suffered.

Find Out More about Mesothelioma

Whether mesothelioma in your pet or yourself or another loved one has affected your life, it's in your best interest to learn everything you can about your legal rights regarding diseases caused by asbestos, a toxic material that is severely restricted. Contact a law firm that helps asbestos victims, and protect your rights.

Related Links

Handicapped Pets Resource - For caretakers of elderly, injured, and handicapped pets; products, services, and support.