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What is this hard, irregular, non-fatty lump on my cat's shoulder?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 7 years and 10 months old | 16 lbs

Hi, I recently found a lump between my cats shoulder blades. We took him to the vet and he's having surgery to remove it today and it's going to be tested to see what it is. I'm so worried about him and I don't feel like I can wait to find out. The lump is very hard, irregularly shaped and moves, though it feels like it's attached to the muscle underneath. It doesn't seem to be causing any pain. What is the most likely scenario? The vet said it wasn't a fatty tumor.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenny, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 11th, 2017

It truly can be anything at this point. the results typically take a week to get back. A cyst or Cancer is a possibility, but regardless of what the outcome... know that having it removed it the best chance to cure it! Good or bad, if it can be removed completely it has a decreased chance of coming back. So the sooner the better! If it is cancer, then your vet can discuss options for further treatment if indicated.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Maria DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 13th, 2018

    From the pictures, it almost looks like a cyst. WIthout a biopsy or aspirate, I cannot say 100%. I would recommend having a veterinarian take a look at it in person to see if it is something that needs to be looked into further. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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