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My cat has a leaking lump on her hip. What should I do before the vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Female | spayed | 4 years and 4 months old | 11 lbs

My female 4 year old cat has recently, within the last few weeks, developed a huge lump, a little smaller than a golf ball, on her left side, closer to her hip area. Today I noticed the area was flat, leaking, and a scab was forming. What should I do until I can get her to the vet?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Allison Newth, VMD

Veterinarian

Published on July 15th, 2017

You didn't include a picture so I cannot say for sure but the most common cause of leaking bumps on a cat would be an abscess, which is a pocket of bacteria, fluid, and inflammatory cells that is often caused by a wound (sometimes from a bite or scratch from another animal). I cannot rule out something like a cyst or a tumor that has grown too large and the skin has gotten stretched and broken open, or even a self inflicted injury from overgrooming, but the most likely answer is that this is an abscess. Pebbles should definitely be seen by her veterinarian, who will probably clean and flush the area and may recommend a culture of the area. They may also prescribe an antibiotic and maybe a pain medication, however in the meantime you can use warm compresses over the area to help it drain and to keep it clean if she allows you to. If you have an e-collar you can place that to prevent her from licking at the area and causing more bacteria (from her mouth) to enter the area. Good luck, I hope I could be helpful!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD
Veterinarian
Hi, I'm Dr. Johnson. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Pebbles!

If Pebbles goes outside it is likely an abscess secondary from bite. I'd take her to the Vet so they can drain it and put her on antibiotics.

If she doesn't go outside it could still be an infection or an infected mass.

I hope she feels better soon!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Rachel
Veterinarian
Hi there! It sounds like Pebbles may have a skin abscess. She should be seen by a vet soon in case antibiotics are needed, but in the meantime you can clean the area with water to remove any discharge or debris. Try to keep her from licking the area- you may need to put a kitty t-shirt or cone collar on her. Monitor her appetite and energy level. I hope she feels better soon!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM
Veterinarian
It sounds like Pebbles may have had an abscess in this area and now it is draining. Gently clean the area as best you can without causing too much stress for the cat. Often times cats need to be sedated at the vet while their abscesses are cleaned so just do the best you can while she's at home. She will need antibiotics to help the abscess clear up completely. I would also recommend keeping her inside while the infection clears up.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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