Painless dark lump on my senior cat's skin: Is it a lipoma or tumor?

Question

My 11 year old female cat has a dark lump protruding from her skin. She doesn't seem to have any pain. Is this just a fatty lipoma? Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 11 years and 7 months old | 10 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

It could be a lipoma, but unfortunately in a senior cat like Leia it could also be a malignant tumor. Other possibilities include a cyst, abscess, or benign tumor. Any suspicious lumps should be examined by the vet. The vet can perform a test called a fine needle aspirate on it. To do this, the vet sticks a small needle into the lump to get a sample of it's cells, and examines the cells on a slide under a microscope. It's usually painless to the animal, and relatively quick to perform. I would have Leia seen by a vet tomorrow to have this lump examined and diagnosed so it can be treated as needed.

Painless dark lump on my senior cat's skin: Is it a lipoma or tumor?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?

My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?

My guinea pig has a growing lump on its neck. Can it heal itself?

My pet's eye looks strange but doesn't seem to hurt. What's wrong?

My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?

Share