My Violet

[NormaJean]

I have an adorable 11 year old cat named Violet. She was diagnosed with mammary tumors 51/2 months ago, and underwent surgery to remove them. I was told they were cancerous.The vet said that her pathology report said that the "margins were clean". She recuperated well. Unfortunately, they have returned. I took her back to the vet, but he said that it looked bleak to perform surgery again, as they returned so quickly.
I'm not sure what to do. I don't know if I should take her to another vet for another opinion. If there are "comfort measures", what can I do for her? She is eating well and drinking water.Her activity level seems the same. The tumors look awful. Shouldn't the vet given me an ointment to put on her sores? How do I stand by and not do anything for her?
My 13 year old labrador just died a month ago and our family is still grieving over our dog, so having this cancer to deal with in Violet has been hard on our family.
Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[squashynose]

First off, I'm so sorry for your loss :( I've just lost one of my dogs, so I know how you feel.
Personally I would get a second opinion if you can, it never hurts. I took Rocky to see two different vets, but they both said exactly the same. And I can't believe the vet didn't give you anything to put on the sores, poor girl. I'd call them up and ask if they can give you something, they must be uncomfortable.
If she is still eating and drinking well, she can't feel that bad with it at the moment. Change in appetite is a sure sign that she's not feeling her best, so keep an eye on her.

[special]

I am sorry for the loss of your beloved family dog, and for what you are going through with your Violet.

by all means get a second opinion. Ask your vet for a referral to a feline oncologist. Is there a Veterinary teaching hospital near you? (by near I mean withint three hour drive) I'm suprised after the first surgery you were not offered the option of chemotherapy. Cats handle chemo much better than humans.

Do please come back and let us know how things are going.