Fibrosarcoma Associated with Vaccination
Overall, it is extremely rare for a cat to develop a sarcoma after vaccination. These tumors grow rapidly and can metastasize to the lungs. They are locally destructive and grow into the muscle which makes surgical removal difficult.
Usually the rabies or leukemia vaccine is the cause of the tumor. Cats that receive multiple vaccines in the same area of the body are at higher risk of developing a sarcoma.
The first sign is a bump under the skin at the vaccination site. While this is common for several days after an injection, sarcomas will persist and grow. Any bump or mass present for a month after a vaccine has been given should be shown to a veterinarian immediately.
Surgical excision is the only treatment after it is determined that the tumor has not metastasized. It is highly recommended that a board-certified surgeon performs the surgery. The survival rate tends to be much longer if the surgery is done at a referral center. Radiation is also an option and extends the life of the pet.Vaccination is an extremely vital aspect to assure your pet’s health. However, vaccines should only be given on an "as needed" basis for each pet. Talk to your veterinarian to assess your cat’s need for rabies and leukemia vaccines.
