Lumps and Bumps in Pets: What You Need to Know
As pet owners, finding a lump or bump on your furry friend can be a worrying experience. While some masses are harmless, others may require further investigation to rule out more serious conditions. At Your Family Vets, we are equipped to assess and diagnose lumps, providing a full range of treatment options, including surgery and chemotherapy if needed.
Diagnosing Lumps: What Happens Next?
When you bring your pet in with a lump, we follow a structured diagnostic approach to determine whether the mass is benign (non-cancerous) or neoplastic (cancerous). This process includes:
1. Physical Examination
A thorough hands-on assessment allows us to check the lump’s size, texture, mobility, and location. Some lumps, such as fatty deposits (lipomas), can be recognised by touch, but further testing is needed for a definitive diagnosis.
2. Fine Needle Aspirates (FNA) & Cytology
A fine needle aspirate involves inserting a small needle into the lump to extract cells for examination under a microscope. Cytology can often help identify the type of mass, whether it’s an infection, a benign growth, or something more concerning.
3. Biopsy & Histology
If the FNA is inconclusive or suggests a more serious condition, a biopsy may be required. This involves taking a larger tissue sample, which is then sent to a laboratory for histological analysis to determine the exact nature of the mass.
4. Diagnostic Imaging (Ultrasound, X-rays, & Advanced Imaging)
To assess internal lumps or check for spread (metastasis), we may use imaging techniques such as:
Ultrasound – Helps evaluate internal masses or lymph nodes.
X-rays – Used to check for masses in the chest or bones.
Advanced imaging (CT/MRI) – Occasionally required for more complex cases.
Treatment Options: What Can Be Done?
Once we have a diagnosis, we’ll discuss all available options with you to ensure the best possible outcome for your pet.
Surgical Removal
For many lumps, surgical excision is the best course of action. At Your Family Vets, we have the expertise to safely remove masses, whether they are benign or malignant. In some cases, complete excision provides a cure.
Chemotherapy & Additional Treatments
If a lump is cancerous and has the potential to spread, chemotherapy may be an option. We can provide chemotherapy treatments in-house, ensuring your pet receives the best care without needing to travel to specialist centres. Some cases may also benefit from adjunct therapies, such as immunotherapy or palliative care, depending on the diagnosis.
Early Detection is Key
The earlier we diagnose and treat lumps, the better the prognosis for your pet. If you notice a lump or bump on your pet, don’t wait—book an appointment at Your Family Vets today. We are here to guide you through the process, offering compassionate and expert care every step of the way.
📍 Your Family Vets, 61 Wetherby Road, Knaresborough, HG5 8LH
📞 01423 900770
📧 hello@yfvets.co.uk