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My cat has a lump on his head. What could it be and what should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 15 years and 10 months old | 14 lbs

Hi. My cat just developed a lump on his head. I attached three photos. Any idea what that might be? Thanks?

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4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on November 14th, 2019

It’s hard to be sure what this is from the photo. The most common lump that come up quickly in cats is an abscess, or pocket of infection. They develop from a puncture wound usually. If it’s an infection it will be sore, hot to the touch, and feel soft. Due to Sampson’s age though this could be a mass or tumor. Those lumps are firm, non painful and do not feel warm. I recommend a veterinary exam to determine what the lump is. They can take a needle and examine some cells from inside the lump and get a diagnosis. If it’s an infection this should heal with antibiotics. If it’s a growth, depending on the diagnosis they may just watch it for enlargement or recommend surgical removal. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Samson.

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    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 19th, 2018

    It's best to have a vet check it out, because they can quickly determine the cause and ensure he gets the appropriate treatment. If the swelling occurred suddenly, then it's most likely to be from trauma, or infection. If it occurred more gradually (over two weeks or so), then it's more likely to be a cyst or tumor. I hope that helps and Jake gets better soon.

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    Answered By Laura E. McRae

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on January 8th, 2015

    Any unexplained lumps, bumps, or masses on your pet should be evaluated by your veterinarian. Lumps/bumps can be abscesses, cysts, tumors (benign or malignant), allergic reactions, and even parasites under the skin. To make a diagnosis, your vet will want to get as much history as possible from you regarding the appearance of the lump; examine the size, shape, appearance, and texture of the lump; and may recommend a biopsy. Once a proper diagnosis is made, your vet will be able to offer a treatment plan.

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    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on August 6th, 2019

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This may be a benign or malignant growth. This could even be an infection. Given its tiny size the chance of being something benign and not of concern is high. 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 him evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. I am really hoping for something benign. Good luck and have a good day!

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From your description this sounds like an abscess or pocket of infection. Outdoor cats get these from fighting. You can use a hot compress on the area and massage it. If you find a scab I would remove it so the infection can drain out. If you can take him to a veterinarian they will sedate him and clean the area and give him antibiotics. Once the area has drained you can keep the wounds cleaned with hydrogen peroxide. If you are going to keep him I recommend neutering him so he’s not so prone to fighting. Thanks for using Boop by Petco to help you care for your cat.
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Hi our cat is about a year old and she was fine this morning but when I came home from work I noticed that she has this huge bump on her head. It is on top in the front and is affecting the shape of her eyes. She doesn't seem to be in any discomfor
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