Lumps and Bumps: When Is a Mass an Emergency?

Finding a lump or bump on your pet can be alarming. While some masses are harmless, others may indicate a more serious health concern, such as infection, cysts, or even cancer. Knowing what to look for and when to seek veterinary care can help ensure the best possible outcome for your pet.

At Sonoran Sky Pet Hospital in Mesa, Arizona, we provide thorough evaluations and diagnostics for lumps and bumps, helping pet owners understand whether a mass requires monitoring, treatment, or urgent medical attention.

Common Types of Lumps and Bumps in Pets

Lumps on pets can vary in size, texture, and location. Some are completely benign (non-cancerous), while others may require further testing.

Benign Masses (Non-Cancerous)

  • Lipomas – Fatty tumors that are soft, movable, and usually harmless.
  • Sebaceous Cysts – Fluid-filled sacs that may rupture and drain on their own.
  • Histiocytomas – Small, red, raised growths, commonly found in young dogs.

Potentially Concerning or Malignant Masses

  • Mast Cell Tumors – These aggressive skin tumors can appear as small lumps but may grow quickly.
  • Soft Tissue Sarcomas – Firm, deep masses that often require surgical removal.
  • Melanomas – Dark or pigmented lumps, especially in the mouth or on the skin.

For a more detailed look at different types of cancer in pets, visit AAHA’s cancer resource page.

When to Be Concerned About a Lump

Not all lumps are emergencies, but some require immediate veterinary attention.

Signs That a Mass May Be Dangerous:

  • Rapid growth – A lump that increases in size quickly.
  • Bleeding or ulceration – Open sores or wounds that do not heal.
  • Pain or discomfort – The mass is tender, swollen, or causing mobility issues.
  • Change in color or texture – Irregular borders, dark pigmentation, or firm, immovable lumps.
  • Lethargy or weight loss – Unexplained changes in energy levels or appetite.

If your pet is showing any of these signs, it’s time for a veterinary evaluation. Learn more about signs of cancer in pets from AAHA.

Is This a Pet Emergency? When to Seek Immediate Care

While some lumps can be monitored over time, others may indicate a medical emergency.

Seek Urgent Veterinary Care If:

  • The lump is suddenly large, swollen, or painful.
  • There is bleeding that won’t stop.
  • The mass is causing difficulty breathing, walking, or eating.
  • Your pet is acting lethargic, vomiting, or refusing food.

For more guidance on how to recognize a pet emergency, visit AAHA’s emergency checklist.

How Are Lumps and Bumps Diagnosed?

At Sonoran Sky Pet Hospital, we use advanced diagnostic tools to determine whether a mass is benign or requires further treatment.

Diagnostic Options May Include:

  • Fine Needle Aspirate (FNA) – A small sample is collected from the lump for microscopic evaluation.
  • Biopsy – A tissue sample is removed and sent to a lab for further analysis.
  • X-rays or Ultrasound – Imaging tests help determine if a mass is affecting internal organs.

If a lump is suspected to be cancerous, early detection is key. The Veterinary Cancer Society offers additional resources for pet owners facing a cancer diagnosis.

Monitoring a Lump at Home

If your veterinarian advises monitoring a lump rather than immediate removal, it’s important to track changes over time.

How to Monitor a Lump at Home:

  • Measure the lump regularly – Use a ruler or take photos to track growth.
  • Check for new lumps – Multiple new masses may indicate an underlying condition.
  • Monitor behavior changes – Look for signs of pain, discomfort, or appetite loss.

For a step-by-step guide to checking your pet’s health, visit The Humane Society’s home exam resource.

Treatment Options for Lumps and Bumps

Treatment depends on the type of mass and its potential risk to your pet’s health.

Possible Treatment Approaches:

  • Monitoring – Some lumps can be left alone if they are not causing harm.
  • Surgical Removal – If a mass is growing or suspected to be malignant, removal may be necessary.
  • Medication or Chemotherapy – Certain cancers may require additional treatment beyond surgery.

Early intervention can improve outcomes for pets with cancerous growths. If your pet is diagnosed with a malignant tumor, AAHA’s guide on cancer in pets provides helpful information.

A Doberman dog sits on a metal examination table at a veterinary clinic. Two veterinarians, one in a white coat and another in a teal scrub, gently hold and examine the dog. The room is bright with an orange wall in the background.

Don’t Wait—Schedule a Lump or Bump Check Today

If you notice a new lump on your pet, don’t take a wait-and-see approach. Early detection and diagnosis are key to ensuring your pet’s health and well-being.

Concerned about a lump on your pet? Contact Sonoran Sky Pet Hospital today.
Need a professional evaluation? Request an appointment for a lump and bump exam.