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What's this warm, itchy lump on my cat's shoulder? Is it serious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 1 year old | 8 lbs

There is a spot on the back of my cats shoulders. She doesn't seem to have any more but just that one and her sister doesn't have them either. All their lives they have been house cats. When I touch it it doesn't hurt but if i press it does. To me the spot feels warm but I don't know if its any warmer than her body. It seems to be itchy today and I think the size got a bit bigger from her licking it.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 27th, 2017

If this area is swollen at all/raised I would be concerned this could be an abscess (especially if you are feeling that it is warm to the touch). The safest bet is to have your vet examine the area. If it is an abscess it may need to be drained and get antibiotics. Other possibilities could include ringworm (a fungal infection) or an insect bite that had an inflammatory reaction. Best to have her seen so we can determine the exact cause and start treatment.

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