Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

My cat has a head bump. Why is he not eating and losing weight?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 8 lbs

I have a male cat that has developed a bump on his head not eating well and loosing weight domestic short hair

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on May 4th, 2017

Thank you for providing a picture of Dalton's bump! This bump could be a benign or malignant tumor, but I am very concerned that he isn't eating well and is losing weight. It is best that he is seen by a vet as soon as possible for not eating well and losing weight. This could be caused by dental disease, systemic illness, infection, inflammation, or injury. It would be good to have a physical exam, blood tests, and urinalysis done on Dalton to diagnose why he isn't eating and losing weight. The vet can also do a fine needle aspirate on his bump. To do this, the vet sticks a small needle into the bump 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. Once all of his symptoms are diagnosed, the vet can discuss treatment options with you.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored