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What's causing a hard, growing bump on my older horse's lower jaw?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Farm Animal | Horse | Male | neutered | 18 years old | 1200 lbs

My horse Harley has this bump on his lower jaw. Last year it was the size of a pinky fingernail and this year it’s much larger. It’s very hard. He just had his teeth floated 2 months ago. His behavior is good and he’s eating really well still .. take note this bump is as hard as a bone.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 19th, 2019

This looks to be an eruption cyst however, this is most common in young horses (less than 5 years old) - very uncommon in older horses. Since she is 18 years of age, it is best to have your vet out to check the bump. Possibilities: * tumor - could be malignant or benign * cyst - may or may not be related to the teeth * abscess - infection * trauma - fracture to bone, when healing, forms a callous and that may be what you are feeling.

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