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My old cat has a growing lump. Tick, skin tag, or something serious?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Female | spayed | 10 years and 8 months old

Hi good afternoon, Looking for advice to determine if my cat has a tick or a skin tag/growth, I’ve been looking out for any legs/movement which I can’t see any at all but this has definitely got a little bigger I found it a month ago. It doesn’t seem to bother her even when I touch close to the area but I’m worried it’s an embedded tick. I’m asking for advice 1st as she is a nightmare at the vets a d it can be a bit of an ordeal, I’ve included a picture, thanks Lianne

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on May 10th, 2022

Hi Lianne! From the picture, it appears to be a growth of some sorts, but because I can't see Elizabeth in person, I honestly can't say for certain. What concerns me is that you say it has gotten bigger since you first noticed it, and also her age. She is over 10 years old, and if it is a growth, at her age, there is always a chance that any growth could be malignant. In this case, I think it's very important that she gets this checked out by a vet. I'd take her into a vet first thing in the morning. I hope this helps!

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on November 17th, 2018
This looks like a growth of some sort on Leah, and it could be malignant or benign. Any suspicious lumps should be examined by the vet. The vet can perform a test called a fine needle aspirate on it. To do this, the vet sticks a small needle into the lump to get a sample of its cells, and examines the cells on a slide under a microscope. It's usually painless to the animal, and relatively quick to perform. Once the cause of the lump is diagnosed, the vet can discuss treatment options if needed. Give her vet a call first thing Monday to make her an appointment. Best of luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jessica Desrosiers
Veterinary Technician
Published on February 19th, 2019
It would be hard to say if it is related or not. As with any new symptom or growth, it's always best to have your vet take a look in person. They can sample the area to see if there is a bacterial or other component to it, and can help recommend changes or medications that may help it resolve.

Until you can get to your vet, placing an Elizabethan (cone) collar on Savanna, if she is scratching or licking at it at all, can help prevent further irritation.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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