Your cat was diagnosed with Renal Lymphoma. Represents ~3.6% of feline lymphoma cases. Often bilateral. High risk of CNS dissemination (~40%). Poor overall prognosis. Compare 8 treatment options for cats including L-CHOP Protocol, COP Protocol (without Doxorubicin), Corticosteroids Alone — with survival times, costs, and what to expect during treatment.
Pet Cancer Options — Renal Lymphoma
Feline Oncology Treatment Guide
Renal Lymphoma
extranodal (renal)
Round Cell
About This Cancer
Renal lymphoma is an aggressive form of feline lymphoma in which cancer cells infiltrate one or both kidneys. It typically involves large, rapidly dividing malignant lymphocytes and frequently affects both kidneys simultaneously. A particularly concerning feature of this form is its high tendency to spread to the central nervous system — approximately 40% of affected cats will develop CNS involvement, which can cause neurological signs such as seizures or behavioural changes. Cats may present with enlarged kidneys detected on physical examination, along with weight loss, poor appetite, increased thirst and urination, and potentially signs of kidney failure. The overall prognosis is poor compared to other feline lymphoma types, and chemotherapy protocols must account for compromised kidney function.
WHO Modified Staging for Feline Lymphoma with Renal-Specific Notes
Standard WHO feline lymphoma staging system supplemented with renal-specific prognostic considerations. Renal lymphoma typically presents as extranodal disease (Stage I if unilateral/bilateral kidneys only) but frequently disseminates.
Prognostic Factors(3)
Minimum Workup(9 steps)
Median Survival Time Comparison
How long the average patient survives with each treatment
Each treatment is rated by how much published research supports its use. Solid bars indicate stronger evidence; dashed bars mean less certainty.
Please note: All treatment data is sourced from published peer-reviewed literature. Survival times and cost figures are approximate guides. Your pet's individual factors — including tumour grade, stage, and overall health — will influence outcomes and should guide all treatment decisions. The strength-of-evidence rating reflects how much research exists, not how strongly a treatment is recommended. This tool is designed to help you have informed conversations with your veterinary oncologist, not to replace them. Costs shown are US referral centre estimates and may vary significantly by region.