My cat has a growing, dark, hard lump on his neck. What should I do?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered
My cat has a hard lump on his neck that keeps growing in size. It has a small opening now. It’s not draining anything and is dark inside.
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on December 22nd, 2017
Poor Murphy! This could be a parasite, an infection, or a tumor that has ruptured. Since it is getting larger, I would have your vet take a look at it. If it is a parasite, they will be able to remove the parasite for you. They will also be able to get him on some antibiotics if needed. If it looks like a tumor, your vet will be able to see whether or not it needs to be surgically removed or just continued to watch. I hope this helps.
5Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on December 11th, 2023
Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. This lump looks to be a tumor but I cannot be 100% sure just by looking at a photo. Other possibilities would be a cyst, an abscess, a local reaction to something like a tick bite. I suggest you take Amenti to your vet for an exam. Hope this helps. Best wishes.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on February 10th, 2018
The next step is to take Foffy into the vet to have this lump examined. It could be a malignant tumor, but it could also be a cyst or a benign tumor. The vet can perform a test called a fine needle aspirate on it. To do this, the vet sticks a small needle into the lump to get a sample of it's cells, and examines the cells on a slide under a microscope. It's usually painless to the animal, and relatively quick to perform. Once the cause of the lump is diagnosed, the vet can discuss treatment options with you. I'd make an appointment with the vet for Monday. Good luck, I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on May 19th, 2017
It is a very good new that the lump hasn't grown, it is important to consider the time frame though. If the lump has remained the same over the course of years, I think we are pretty certain that it should not be an aggressive tumour. If it is just a month for example, then I would be more cautious as things can still change dramatically or the lump could cause internal problems too. I would suggest that you have it checked over at your vets, we have a new motto in veterinary medicine which is " Why wait ? Aspirate ! " a pretty simple procedure such as a fine needle aspirate from the lump can help understanding the nature of the lump and act promptly if needed. Some lumps are caused by infection and secondary to fights.. other are cysts and can be quite firm on palpation too, depending on the substance contained. To put your mind at rest, have it checked over,
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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