This article discusses what you should know about finding a bump on your pet.
Jumping to conclusions is a natural part of human nature – especially if we experience something frightening or confusing. When pet parents find new growths on or under a pet’s skin, worrying about them and assuming the worst is fine. However, you should never ignore a bump on your pet. It can be something serious. This article discusses what you should know about finding a bump on your pet.
Stay Calm
At Alexander Animal Hospital, we understand how alarming it could be to find a bump on your pet. Although remaining calm may not be possible, observing the size, location, shape, and appearance can help direct the next steps. All growths must be assessed and addressed by your veterinarian. Some bumps and lumps must be seen immediately, while others can wait until their next wellness exam. After finding a bump on your pet, bring them to see us without delay if:
- They are six years or older
- Have a history of cancer
- The skin around the bump is red or swollen
- Your pet reacts with pain when being touched
- You notice bleeding or discharge
- The growth appears to be spreading or changing
A bump’s physical characteristics help us identify infection, inflammation, or possible cancerous cells.
Different Growth Types
Malignant tumors can be to blame for a bump on your pet. However, other growth types occur due to the following:
- Skin tags, cysts, warts, or fatty tumors are considered benign growths
- Parasites
- Fungus or bacterial infection
- The abscesses might be caused by skin irritation, infection, or an imbedded foreign object
- Granuloma formation due to an allergic reaction or excessive licking
Next Steps
Your veterinarian may perform a biopsy on your pet to find information about the cells across a more significant tissue sample, which can lead to an accurate diagnosis. Consequently, we can determine the main course of disease and what treatment(s) might be ideal. Sometimes, a bump is located in an area on your pet’s body that causes discomfort or minimizes mobility. Surgical removal of bump growths (even benign ones) may add to a pet’s quality of life.
Based on your pet’s diagnosis, supplements or herbs could help reduce potential growth. In addition, surgically removing growths can add to a pet’s quality of life.
Support Your Pet’s Wellness at Alexander Animal Hospital
Alexander Animal Hospital is a full-service animal hospital located in Severna Park, Maryland, serving the Severna Park, Pasadena, and Arnold Areas. Our goal is educating clients on the needs of their pets and understanding the importance of individualized veterinary care in order to strengthen the human-animal bond between owners and their pets.
We understand you have a choice when deciding on the care for your pets, and we strive to provide you with unparalleled services including wellness exams, vaccines, lost pet microchip ID, dental care, surgical services, digital radiography, and in-hospital laboratory services and diagnostics. Other highlights of Alexander Animal Hospital are the separate cat and dog waiting and exam rooms, as well as after-hours on-call emergency services.
Please take a look around our website and then give us a call at 410-777-8678 to set up an appointment. We’re social! Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest for all the latest updates!