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Why is my cat's cheek lump growing so fast, but not painful?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 17.6 lbs

I've noticed a lump on my cats cheek and within 8 hours its doubled in size. It doesnt seem to hurt him when I touch it.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on December 10th, 2017

Poor Jinx! This could be a few different things like a tooth root abscess, an abscess from a bite wound, or a benign or cancerous growth. Since it is growing so rapidly, I would strongly recommend to have your vet look at it soon. Your vet will be able to do an aspirate of the mass to see whether it needs to be surgically removed or if medication may help it go down. I hope this helps and he starts to feel better soon!

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    Answered By Daniela Jessen, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    A sudden, fast growing lump/swelling on the cheek of the cat is likely to be an abscess, basically a pocket full of pus. At that location a dental abscess (form a problematic tooth) is possible but it can also be as a result of a trauma (most commonly fights). Either way the cat need to be checked by a vet, the mouth should be examined closely and the abscess need to be treated. The cat may need dental procedure, antibiotics or abscess drainage.

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