Why is my cat's nipple enlarged, hard, and black? Is it serious?

In your picture this looks like a fairly normal nipple, although it does seem a bit large. It's possible that this nipple is inflamed, or that there is a growth or tumor associated with it. I'd recommend having your vet examine the nipple in person to help determine what might be going on.

This does look very dark, and I agree that in your picture it doesn't look like a tick. I'd recommend having your vet take a look in person to make sure the nipple has not become infected or that this isn't something like a skin tumor.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Tashi! If the mass is associated with a nipple it is likely a mass in the mammary gland. Sadly about 85% of masses in cat mammary glands tend to be cancerous. I highly recommend a vet visit so they can examine Tashi. You the can discuss removing the mass for biopsy. I hope this helps and I wish Tashi the best!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be a benign or malignant growth. This is often differentiated by a test called a fine needle aspirate (FNA) which is a pain free, inexpensive and easy procedure which in most cases will help reach a diagnosis. 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 night!

I see what you mean about Pepper's nipple, it is a big redder around the base and more enlarged than the nipple in the third picture. What I am a bit worried about is the small lump, and due to that, yes I think it should be checked out by a vet to be safe. I don't think it's a serious issue, but I cannot say that for sure without seeing her, so having it checked out by a vet is best. Give her vet a call now to make her an appointment. I hope this helps!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It is very hard to see in these pictures. This could be a benign or malignant growth. This is often differentiated by a test called a fine needle aspirate (FNA) which is a pain free, inexpensive and easy procedure which in most cases will help reach a diagnosis. Sometimes a biopsy is needed for a definitive diagnosis. I recommend that you have her evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. I am really hoping for something benign. Good luck and have a good night!

Hi there, I would have your vet check Milo. It's nothing urgent, but it could be a small mass that is growing around the nipple and it may need to be removed. Your vet can test the area first and tell you what the next best step is. I hope that helps and thanks for using Pet Coach!