Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Cats: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment (Vet-Reviewed)

Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Cats – Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is one of the most aggressive and commonly diagnosed skin cancers in cats. It usually appears in areas with little hair or pigmentation like the ears, nose, eyelids, or lips. Without early detection and treatment, SCC can spread locally and severely affect your cat’s quality of life.

🔍 What Is Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

SCC is a malignant tumor that develops in squamous cells—flat cells found on a cat’s skin and mucous membranes.

1. It may start as a red patch or small, scabby sore that doesn’t heal.

2. Lesions can grow, become ulcerated, or painful over time.

3. SCC can appear in the mouth, under the tongue, on gums, or around the nails (oral SCC).

⚠️ What Causes SCC in Cats?

The exact cause isn't always clear, but common risk factors include:

1. Prolonged sun exposure, especially in white or light-colored cats

2. Chronic inflammation or non-healing wounds

3. Secondhand smoke exposure, increasing oral SCC risk

4. Age – most cases occur in cats over 10 years old

🐱 Symptoms to Watch For

Look for the following signs:

1. Non-healing wounds or scabs on ears, nose, lips

2. Crusty, ulcerated, or bleeding lesions

3. Swelling in the mouth or jaw

4. Excessive drooling or difficulty eating

5. Masses on paw pads or near nails

6. Redness or persistent inflammation in affected areas

🧪 How It’s Diagnosed

Diagnosis typically includes:

1. A full physical exam and medical history review

2. Fine needle aspiration or biopsy for lab confirmation

3. X-rays or advanced imaging to check for tumor spread

💊 Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the tumor’s size, location, and severity:

1. Surgical removal with clean margins

2. Cryotherapy (freezing) for surface-level skin lesions

3. Radiation therapy for inoperable or complex cases

4. Chemotherapy, though less commonly effective for SCC

5. Pain management and supportive care, especially in late stages

🛡️ Can You Prevent SCC?

You can reduce risk by:

1. Keeping light-colored cats indoors between 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

2. Using pet-safe sunscreen on ears and noses for outdoor cats

3. Avoiding smoking indoors

4. Scheduling regular vet visits and monitoring unusual lesions

💻 Get Help from Telekitty’s Online Vets

Worried about a sore on your cat’s nose or ear that won’t heal?

With Telekitty, you can:

1. Show the lesion to a licensed vet virtually

2. Get advice on diagnosis and treatment options

3. Learn if a clinic visit is urgently needed

😺 Concerned About a Suspicious Lesion?
Book a video consultation today at 👉 telekitty.com
🆓 First month of vet consultations is FREE