If you’ve noticed a lump or bump on your dog of unknown origin, don’t panic. While it’s easy for us to drift to the worst-case scenario, let’s not start throwing the c-word around just yet. There are many reasons why a dog might have a mystery lump, and most of the time, it’s not that serious. In this post, we’ll discuss the most common lump types you may find on your pooch.
Common Lumps
Lipoma
A lipoma is a type of benign tumor made of mostly fat tissue. Lipomas are common, especially in older dogs. Lipomas can pop up anywhere, but unless they’re affecting your dog’s quality of life, it’s probably best to just leave them alone. You will want your vet to aspirate some fluid from the lipoma just to make sure it’s not malignant.
Cyst
Cysts are another very common lump on dogs, especially sebaceous cysts. Sebaceous cysts are caused by blocked oil glands and can grow to be pretty large in size. Cysts will usually pop on their own and don’t require veterinary intervention unless they start showing signs of infection or abscess (discussed below).
Wart
Warts are yet another very common type of lump on dogs. Warts have a variety of potential causes, including old age, reactions to certain drugs, or even viral infections. Just like lipomas and cysts, warts are usually left alone unless they affect your dog’s quality of life or show signs of infection.
Hematoma
A hematoma is a collection of blood in an area of the body that was injured. Bruises are the most common hematomas, and some can feel like a lump depending on where they are located in the body. While hematomas are not usually dangerous, you should always make sure that whatever caused the hematoma didn’t also cause other damage or injury.
Abscess
An abscess is an area that has become infected and filled with pus material. Abscesses are painful and usually warm to the touch. Without professional veterinary treatment, abscesses can cause systemic infections and be fatal.
Cancer
Unfortunately, some lumps do end up being cancerous tumors. Several types of cancer can afflict dogs, including skin and blood cancers. Professional veterinary assessment, diagnosis, and treatment are required for all cancerous tumors.
Veterinary Care in Wesley Chapel
No matter what type of lump your dog has, the experts at Pet Urgent Care in Wesley
Chapel can help you figure it out and determine the best treatment path. Just contact us at (813) 279-6500 or drop by our location at 27027 SR 56 Wesley Chapel, FL 33544 on weekdays from 6 pm to 11 pm, Saturdays from 2 pm to 11 pm, or Sundays from 5 pm to 11 pm.