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My cat has a lump on his head. What could it be and what should I do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 15 years and 10 months old | 14 lbs

Hi. My cat just developed a lump on his head. I attached three photos. Any idea what that might be? Thanks?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on November 14th, 2019

It’s hard to be sure what this is from the photo. The most common lump that come up quickly in cats is an abscess, or pocket of infection. They develop from a puncture wound usually. If it’s an infection it will be sore, hot to the touch, and feel soft. Due to Sampson’s age though this could be a mass or tumor. Those lumps are firm, non painful and do not feel warm. I recommend a veterinary exam to determine what the lump is. They can take a needle and examine some cells from inside the lump and get a diagnosis. If it’s an infection this should heal with antibiotics. If it’s a growth, depending on the diagnosis they may just watch it for enlargement or recommend surgical removal. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Samson.

5Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on February 19th, 2018
It's best to have a vet check it out, because they can quickly determine the cause and ensure he gets the appropriate treatment.

If the swelling occurred suddenly, then it's most likely to be from trauma, or infection. If it occurred more gradually (over two weeks or so), then it's more likely to be a cyst or tumor.

I hope that helps and Jake gets better soon.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Laura E. McRae
Veterinary Technician
Published on January 8th, 2015
Any unexplained lumps, bumps, or masses on your pet should be evaluated by your veterinarian. Lumps/bumps can be abscesses, cysts, tumors (benign or malignant), allergic reactions, and even parasites under the skin. To make a diagnosis, your vet will want to get as much history as possible from you regarding the appearance of the lump; examine the size, shape, appearance, and texture of the lump; and may recommend a biopsy. Once a proper diagnosis is made, your vet will be able to offer a treatment plan.
4Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM
Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident
Published on August 6th, 2019
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This may be a benign or malignant growth. This could even be an infection. Given its tiny size the chance of being something benign and not of concern is high. This cannot be completely assessed just by looking at pictures and usually requires sampling such as fine needle aspiration to determine its origin. Sometimes a biopsy is needed for a definitive diagnosis. I recommend that you have him evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. I am really hoping for something benign. Good luck and have a good day!
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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