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My cat has a neck lump and is acting strange. Should I be concerned?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 15 lbs

My cat has a baseball size lump on his neck. Been hiding and quite which isn’t like him. He’s an inside and outside cat. Should I be concerned? I will attach a photo below

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on September 30th, 2017

Yes, the mass should be cause for concern, especially since Pip has other symptoms. Have him examined by your veterinarian. A fine needle aspirate can be done in the clinic to collect samples for pathology. This may diagnose infection, a benign mass or a malignancy. Treatment may depend on the results of the aspirate. If an aspirate is inconclusive, an excisional biopsy or complete resection under anesthesia may be indicated.

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    Answered By Mara Howard, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 29th, 2017

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I'm sorry to hear Pip has a lump. I would be concerned that he had an injury while outside, and the lump you are feeling is an abscess under his skin. Additionally, a growth or a cyst can appear similar to what you are describing. I would recommend Pip be evaluated by his regular veterinarian to determine the underlying cause for his lump, and start any treatment that he may need to resolve it (antibiotics, anti-inflammatory, or a drain placement if an abscess). Good luck!

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