My dog has a bleeding growth on her paw. Should I go to the vet?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

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  Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

  Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

  Published on November 18th, 2018

  Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be a benign or malignant growth. There is no way of knowing what it is just based on its appearance. This is often differentiated by a test called a fine needle aspirate (FNA) which is a pain free, inexpensive and easy procedure which in most cases will help reach a diagnosis. Sometimes a biopsy is needed for a definitive diagnosis. I recommend that you have her evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. I am really hoping for something benign. Good luck and have a good day!

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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  Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

  Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

  Published on July 9th, 2019

  Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This may be a benign or malignant growth. This could even be an infection. This cannot be completely assessed just by looking at pictures and usually requires sampling such as fine needle aspiration to determine its origin. Sometimes a biopsy is needed for a definitive diagnosis. I recommend that you have her evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. I am really hoping for something benign. Good luck and have a good night!

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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  Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on September 1st, 2017

  Hi there and thank you for using Pet Coach! The photo you have attached is slightly blurry and difficult to interpret. If this is a raised bump that is bleeding, I would have your veterinarian examine Paws and perform some additional tests on the area to ensure this is not something to be concerned about. I would want to rule out a cancerous mass, especially in a 14 year old cat. This may also be benign but if Paws is getting at the area and traumatizing the skin and mass, I would say that she is likely bothered by it and removing it would ultimately eliminate this problem if it is benign. If it is cancerous, new ones may develop in different areas on the body. Again, I would have your vet check Paws out to determine if this is something to be concerned about. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns! I am also available via phone or text consultation!

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful