Finding a lump on your pet is scary—but not every lump is dangerous. The key is knowing when to monitor, when to test, and when removal is the best option.
➡️ General medicine: https://poplarviewpethospital.com/services/general-medicine/
➡️ Soft tissue surgery: https://poplarviewpethospital.com/services/soft-tissue-surgery/
➡️ Request appointment: https://poplarviewpethospital.com/request-appointment/
Common types of lumps
Some frequent (often benign) findings include:
- Fatty tumors (lipomas)
- Cysts
- Warts/skin tags
- Inflammation from bites or irritation
But lumps can also be:
- Abscesses
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Tumors that require prompt treatment
Red flags: schedule an exam soon
- Rapid growth
- Firm or fixed to underlying tissue
- Ulceration, bleeding, or scabbing
- Causing pain or lameness
- Located near mouth, genitals, or lymph node areas
- Multiple new lumps appearing quickly
Why “watch and wait” can backfire
Even benign masses can become large enough to:
- Restrict movement
- Irritate skin
- Become harder (and more expensive) to remove later
And some malignant masses look harmless early.
How we evaluate a lump
Your vet may recommend:
- Measuring and photographing for tracking
- Fine needle aspirate (cell sampling)
- Biopsy or removal
- Imaging if deeper involvement is suspected
When removal is recommended
Removal may be advised when:
- The mass is growing
- It interferes with comfort/mobility
- It’s infected or ulcerated
- Testing suggests a risk
➡️ Soft tissue surgery: https://poplarviewpethospital.com/services/soft-tissue-surgery/
➡️ Request appointment: https://poplarviewpethospital.com/request-appointment/
