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LUMPS & BUMPS ON YOUR PET
What are lumps & bumps?
Lumps and bumps are commonly seen in older pets, but younger animals can develop them too. It’s essential to have any lump or bump on your pet checked by a veterinarian, as some may be harmless, while others could indicate more serious health issues. Ignoring lumps won’t make them go away, and although they’re common, they are not normal.
Regularly checking your pet’s body helps you identify any changes early. By familiarising yourself with what is normal for your pet, you can quickly notice new growths and get veterinary care when needed. Early detection can make a significant difference to treatment and outcomes.
How can I check for lumps on my pet?
Regularly checking your pet for lumps and bumps is an essential part of their health care routine. Gently run your hands over your pet’s entire body, paying close attention to areas like the neck, chest, abdomen, and legs. Look for any new or unusual growths, swellings, or changes in the texture of the skin. If you notice anything abnormal, even small lumps, it's important to consult your veterinarian promptly.
By performing these checks regularly, you'll become familiar with what’s normal for your pet and be able to spot any changes early, ensuring prompt veterinary attention when needed. Early detection is key to managing potential health issues effectively.
I found a lump on my pet, now what?
If you discover a lump on your pet, it’s important to have it evaluated by your veterinarian as soon as possible. While many lumps are harmless, some can indicate more serious conditions, such as cancer. Your vet will likely perform a simple test, like a fine needle aspiration, to determine whether the lump is benign or requires further treatment.
Don’t wait to see if the lump will go away on its own. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes, so schedule a vet visit if you notice any new growths or changes in your pet's skin.
How can I tell if a lump on my pet is cancer?
It’s not possible to determine if a lump on your pet is cancerous just by appearance alone. Cancerous lumps can vary in size, shape, and texture. The only way to know for sure is to have your veterinarian examine the lump and perform diagnostic tests like a fine needle aspiration or biopsy. A fine needle aspiration involves using a thin needle to collect cells from the lump for examination under a microscope. In some cases, a biopsy may be needed, where a small tissue sample is surgically removed for a more detailed analysis. Both procedures help determine whether the lump is benign or malignant, allowing your vet to recommend the best course of action.
Benign vs Malignant: What's the difference?
Not all lumps are the same—some are benign (non-cancerous), while others can be malignant (cancerous).
Benign lumps are typically slow-growing, non-invasive, and do not spread to other parts of the body. These lumps are usually harmless and often just need monitoring or removal if necessary.
Malignant lumps tend to be fast-growing, invasive, and capable of spreading to surrounding tissues or other organs, potentially causing more serious health issues. These growths need to be removed before they spread.
Treatment options for lumps & bumps
The treatment for lumps and tumours depends on whether they are benign or malignant. Common treatments include surgical removal of the lump, which is often the first step, especially for larger or malignant growths. In some cases, additional treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be recommended, particularly if the tumour is cancerous and has the potential to spread. Your veterinarian will guide you through the best treatment plan for your pet, based on the type, size, and location of the lump, as well as your pet’s overall health.
What kind of lumps are there?
There are various types of lumps that pets can develop, ranging from harmless growths to more serious conditions. Below are six of the most common types of lumps in pets—click on each button to learn more about what they are and how they may affect your pet's health.
Mast Cell Tumours (MCT) in Dogs and Cats
Mast Cell Tumours (MCTs) are one of the most common skin tumours in dogs and also occur in cats, though less frequently. These tumours arise from mast cells, which are involved in the body’s immune response. When these cells grow abnormally, they can release chemicals that cause harmful effects, including allergic reactions, stomach ulcers, and internal bleeding.
Appearance & Diagnosis
MCTs can vary significantly in appearance and are often called "the great pretender" because they can mimic benign lumps. For both dogs and cats, a fine needle aspiration or biopsy is essential for diagnosis, as visual inspection alone is not enough to determine the tumour type.
Common Breeds & Locations
In dogs, breeds like Staffordshire Terriers, Boxers, and Bulldogs are more susceptible, while Siamese cats are prone to a specific histiocytic MCT variant. MCTs in both species are most commonly found on the skin, but they can also affect internal organs, such as the liver and spleen, particularly in cats.
Treatment & Prognosis
Surgical removal is the standard treatment for MCTs in both dogs and cats. The tumour’s grade, determined through post-surgical analysis, influences the prognosis and whether additional treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation is needed. Malignant tumours have a higher chance of spreading and may require more aggressive treatment, while benign tumours, particularly in cats, can sometimes regress without surgery.
Early detection and prompt treatment are key to managing MCTs in both dogs and cats, so it's important to have any new lumps checked by your veterinarian.