Lumps on dogs and cats: when should they be checked?

Not all lumps are alike

A lump may be fatty tissue, a cyst, inflammation, an abscess or a tumour. Softness, hardness or mobility alone cannot reliably tell you what it is.

Do not panic, but do not delay an examination simply because your pet seems cheerful.

What to record

Note when you found the lump, where it is, whether it grows, changes colour, causes pain or ulcerates. A photo with a ruler can help track its size.

Do not squeeze, puncture or apply random treatments to the lump.

Tests your vet may suggest

A veterinarian may recommend fine-needle aspiration and cytology or a biopsy. The method depends on the location and characteristics of the lump.

Further tests may be needed before treatment, particularly if the mass is growing quickly or is in a difficult location.

When not to wait

Arrange a prompt check if the lump grows rapidly, bleeds, affects movement or breathing, or is accompanied by pain or lethargy.

Even a small new lump deserves examination at a scheduled visit rather than being ignored for months.

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