Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My senior dog has a painless throat lump. Is it cancer? What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | unneutered | 15 lbs

My dog is 11 years old and prances around like he is a puppy he eats well and goes to the bathroom my worry is that he has lump on his throat is doesnt hurt him when I touch it or feel around it ..I look up some pictures to see what it is an it shows that it is lymphoma I just want to make sure it is cancer and what I can do

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 13th, 2017

Unfortunately, cancer is always a possibility in a senior dog like Mufasa. Any suspicious lumps should be examined by the vet. 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. I would have Mufasa seen by a vet tomorrow to have the lump examined and diagnosed so it can be treated.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Lauren Celestin, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Dentistry Resident

    Published on

    Hello! While Mufasa is an older dog and cancer has to be a consideration, there are other possibilities. Depending on the location of the lump, a veterinarian may be able to give you a general idea of what structures may be affected; however, the only way to know if it is cancer or not to get a sample of the cells or tissue. A tissue sample or biopsy is more invasive, but would give a definitive answer. A cytology, where a needle is placed in the lump and the cells are examined under a microscope is less invasive, but not as reliable. I recommend having Mufasa seen by his veterinarian for a complete physical examination, thorough palpation of the lump, +/- blood work, and an open discussion regarding the options and what you feel is best for Mufasa.

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored