My Pet Has a Lump – What Do I Do?
Welcome to our October blog series at Pet Health, discussing lumps and bumps in our beloved pets. Today, we’re addressing a common concern: discovering a lump on your pet. Finding a lump can be alarming, but don’t panic—many lumps are benign. However, monitoring any new growth is crucial, and you should consult with your Pet Health veterinarian for a professional evaluation.
Discovering the Lump
Lumps are often found accidentally during petting, grooming, or playtime. If you discover a lump, take a deep breath and follow these three steps:
Step Number One – Record Your Findings
- Pinpoint the Location: Locating a small growth again can be challenging, especially in long-coated pets. Make a detailed record of the location.
- Detailed Record: Note the size, texture, and date found. Consider taking a picture, writing a description, or shaving the area around the lump for easy identification during the vet visit.
Step Number Two – Make an Appointment with Your Vet
Once you discover a lump, the next crucial step is to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. During the visit, the vet will conduct a thorough examination to assess the lump. If the growth is large enough, I always recommend performing a Fine Needle Aspirate (FNA) and Cytology to verify or diagnose the type of growth.
Step Number Three – Perform a Fine Needle Aspirate (FNA) and Cytology
Fine Needle Aspirate (FNA) is a quick procedure where a veterinarian collects cells from the lump using a thin needle. It’s minimally invasive and usually doesn’t require anesthesia, making it a low-stress option for both the pet and the pet parent. The collected cells are then examined under a microscope to determine the nature of the lump. This process is essential in accurately diagnosing whether the lump is benign or malignant and selecting the appropriate action, whether monitoring, further testing, or immediate treatment.
Do We Always Have to Aspirate a Growth?
Yes, new or unknown growths should always be aspirated to determine the type of growth. Aspiration provides critical information that cannot be obtained through physical examination alone. It helps differentiate between various types of lumps, such as benign lipomas, cysts, or potentially malignant tumors, ensuring that your pet receives the most accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.
Other Recommendations
Conducting Regular Checks at Home
- Regular checks at home can help you catch lumps early, allowing for prompt veterinary evaluation and treatment if necessary. Here’s how to do a basic check:
- Set a Routine: Incorporate lump checks during grooming, petting, or playtime. This makes the process less stressful for your pet and ensures you don’t forget to check regularly. For instance, you can make it a habit to check for lumps during your pet’s weekly bath or while brushing their fur.
- Feel for Abnormalities: Gently run your hands over your pet’s body, feeling for any unusual bumps or lumps. Pay close attention to areas where lumps commonly appear, such as the neck, chest, abdomen, and legs. Don’t forget to check less obvious places, like between the toes and under the armpits.
- Note Changes: Keep a log of new findings, including their size, shape, texture, and location. Take pictures of the lumps with a date stamp to track any changes. Detailed records will be beneficial when you visit your veterinarian, providing a clear history of the lump’s development.
Regular Vet Check-ups
Annual or bi-annual vet visits are crucial for monitoring overall health. Your Pet Health veterinarian can detect subtlechanges that might be missed at home, such as slight enlargements or changes in the texture of a lump. Regular check-ups also allow your vet to monitor existing lumps and take action if they show signs of becoming problematic. These visits are an opportunity to discuss your concerns about your pet’s lumps and overall health.
Conclusion
Discovering a lump on your pet can be concerning, but remember that not all lumps are serious. You can ensure your pet receives the best care possible by staying vigilant, recording your findings, and promptly consulting with your Pet Health veterinarian. Regular at-home checks and professional veterinary examinations are crucial for early detection and treatment of potential issues.
Stay tuned for more informative blogs this month, including “Benign vs Malignant: Understanding Tumors in Pets” and “The Three Most Common Benign Skin Tumors in Dogs.” Happy Pet Parenting!