A Pet Parent's Guide To Lumps And Bumps

Finding a lump or bump on your pet can be a scary moment but, the worst thing you can do is panic. 

Masses of all kinds are fairly common and can range from harmless skin growths to benign or malignant tumors. Here are some tips to keep in mind when you find yourself questioning a lump or bump you find on your pet. 

Check Your Pet Regularly

Check your pet monthly for lumps and bumps while petting or brushing. Lumps and bumps can form just about anywhere on or under your pet’s skin but most commonly are found in regions like the armpit, groin, toes, lips, ears, and more. If you find something on your pet, even if it’s small, give us a call. We’re happy to help determine what it is and how to proceed.

The Scary Truth

It’s super important to address any lumps and bumps you find with your veterinarian. Did you know that statistics show:
- In dogs, about 20-40% of lumps and bumps that are found can be dangerous. 

- In cats, about 50% of lumps and bumps that are found can be dangerous.

Early Treatment

Get treated early to avoid worrying about your pet later.  Treatment tends to be less expensive, less painful, and have a higher chance of having a good outcome when lumps and bumps are treated early on. Most lumps and bumps can be cured with surgery alone if found when small. If a lump or bump is determined to be cancerous it’s important to remember that cancer treatments do not affect our pets the same way it does to humans and a high quality of life can be maintained!  

Inform Your Veterinarian

Don’t let lumps or bumps scare you, just give Brook Farm Veterinary Center a call, provide us with any details of how it looks, where it’s located on your pet’s body, and when you noticed it. The more information you can give your veterinarian, the better.  This will help your veterinarian determine the best treatment plan for your pet.

Regular Exams

Regular annual or semiannual exams with your veterinarian and monthly examinations at home can help you stay on top of any changes in your pet’s existing lumps and bumps—and quickly detect any new ones.

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If you’re worried about a lump or bump on your pet, get it checked out as soon as possible!

 To schedule an appointment, call us at (845) 878-4833 or visit us online at www.brookfarmveterinarycenter.com/book-an-appointment.