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Why does my outdoor cat have hard bumps on her back and tail?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 8 lbs

I have a female cat. She is in and outdoors. She has small hard bumps all down from the middle of her back to her tail. And they are clusters. Don't seem to bother her much but I feel them when I am petting her

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren M. Jones, VMD

Veterinarian

Published on July 26th, 2017

Poor Patches! The bumps that you are feeling down her back sound most suspicious for lesions that occur as a result of a skin infection. Since Patches goes outdoors, make sure she is receiving a high quality flea preventative, such as Advantage ( http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=23035 ), Revolution, or Bravecto on a regular basis. Some cats can scratch from fleas, leading to the onset of a skin infection. You can also try bathing her in a medicated antimicrobial shampoo ( http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=27982 ) if she will tolerate it. If her skin lesions continue or worsen, Patches will need to go to her vet because she may need a course of antibiotics. I hope that all goes well!

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