Vaccine-related sarcoma is a malignant cancer that can occur in cats, dogs, and ferrets after receiving certain vaccines. The rabies and feline leukemia virus vaccines are the most closely associated with this condition. If suspected, a biopsy and lumpectomy are performed, followed by chemotherapy and radiation. While the risk is real, it is important to continue vaccinating pets, especially for diseases like rabies and FeLV.
Vaccine-related sarcoma is a very malignant cancer that occurs mainly in cats, although it has also been documented in dogs and ferrets. This condition is also known as vaccine-associated sarcoma (VAS), and a number of countries have set up task forces to monitor cases of vaccine-associated sarcoma, with the intent of determining the cause of the condition and possible preventative measures that could be used to reduce the likelihood of developing vaccine-related sarcoma.
The two vaccines most closely associated with vaccine-related sarcoma are the rabies vaccine and the feline leukemia virus (FeLV) vaccines. The sarcoma typically appears within a few weeks of vaccination, as a rapidly growing nodule that can ulcerate through the skin. Vaccine related sarcoma is known to be extremely aggressive and fast growing and requires prompt action.
In a situation where a veterinarian suspects a vaccine-related sarcoma may be present, a biopsy is performed and the cat is scheduled for a lumpectomy to remove the sarcoma. If the biopsy comes back positive for the sarcoma, the surgery will go ahead. Many vets do a good cut around the edges of the tumor to make sure it doesn’t come back. Because sarcomas often appear near the spine, due to the placement of the vaccination site, some vets prefer to recommend surgeons who are comfortable working around the spine. After the sarcoma has been removed, chemotherapy and radiation may be recommended to ensure the sarcoma is eradicated.
This problem was first recognized in 1991 and has spurred a major reform of vaccination protocols for cats. Suspicious ingredients in vaccines have also been identified and banned to address the rise in vaccine-associated sarcoma. Veterinarians and cat owners are also encouraged to report cases of vaccine-related sarcoma in order to generate as much data as possible.
The risk of vaccine-related sarcoma is real, but you shouldn’t let that stop you from vaccinating your cat. Discuss with the veterinarian the feline vaccinations recommended for your pet and ask for his opinion on the frequency of vaccinations; some researchers suspect that the risk of vaccine-related sarcoma may be elevated by repeated vaccines. If your cat goes outdoors, vaccination for FeLV and rabies is not optional. These diseases are excruciatingly painful and unpleasant, and while vaccine-associated sarcoma can be deadly, the risk of rabies or FeLV infection is not worth skipping a necessary vaccine.
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