Which type of tumor is typically associated with older cats?

Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of tumor that is frequently seen in older cats, particularly due to their increased sun exposure and susceptibility to environmental factors that can lead to skin lesions. This tumor often develops in areas with less fur, such as the ears, nose, and eyelids, where the skin may be more vulnerable to UV radiation.

In older cats, the cumulative effects of sun exposure can result in changes to the skin that predispose them to malignant transformations, manifesting as squamous cell carcinoma. The incidence of this type of cancer tends to rise with age, making it a notable concern in geriatric feline populations.

While other tumors, such as soft tissue sarcomas and fibrosarcomas, can be seen in feline patients, their association with age is not as pronounced as with squamous cell carcinoma. Transmissible venereal tumors, on the other hand, are more commonly associated with specific risk factors not directly related to the natural aging process in cats. Therefore, the prevalence of squamous cell carcinoma in older cats highlights the importance of age and environmental exposure as key contributing factors in the development of this cancer.