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My cat has a growing lump. Is surgery the best option despite risks?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 4 years and 9 months old | 13.7 lbs

Silver's nodule turned out to be a cyst. After more than 2 years it swelled all of a sudden to a pouch (~5 cm large) under the skin. The vet did a cytology and concluded it was not infeccious. She prescribed Onsior during 5 days. As the swelling did not disappear she advises cirurgy to remove it. I have read in the net that we may choose to leave it alone as it does not bother the cat (it is in the neck under the sk). Cirurgy involves anesthey and there are always some risks. What is best to do?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on November 18th, 2017

You are right, there is always some risk with surgery. However, you may want to visit with your veterinarian about the anesthesia monitoring they do. It may surprise you how low the risk is and how much effort is put into safety. As far as the mass goes, I do get concerned anytime a mass is changing. I do recommend surgical removal any time there is a big change to an existing mass. However, there is always the possibility that it could remain quiet and never cause a problem. I would recommend visiting more with your veterinarian and making that decision together. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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