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My cat has a painful tongue lump, bleeding, can't eat. Is it serious?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | British Shorthair | Female | spayed | 35 lbs

Hello my cat has a lump on her tongue she can barly eat anymore even after getting injectioms it hasn’t cleared she smells like death she tried to eat and ends up pouring blood out of her mouth she always in pain she drewling lots with ting of blood in it she can’t walk without swirving it is time to put her to sleep as I don’t think she is having quality of life she basically just sleeps all the time we got pain relief but in the night she throws up clear stuff with no fur ball

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on November 28th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is very likely a malignant tumor unfortunately. Cats are very well known for having a mouth tumor called squamous cell carcinoma which carries a poor prognosis. However, it could still be something else. The only way to know is by doing some sampling via fine needle aspiration or possibly a biopsy. If squamous cell carcinoma is confirmed, it is not likely to respond to medications much other than mild decrease in inflammation. Treatment for squamous cell carcinoma is limited by how aggressive this tumor is though sometimes surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy are options. Sorry for the sad news. Let's hope it is more on the benign side. Good luck and have a great day!
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Dr. B. DVM, DACVIM (Oncology)

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 7th, 2018

    Was there a mass or abnormal tissue noted? I would recommend a sedated oral exam first as it is very difficult to get a good look in a cats mouth without sedation, especially if it is painful. If there is an abnormality noted it should then be sampled to determine the cause. This is important to gain a diagnosis so that a proper diagnostic and treatment plan can be given to you. Different options may be available for you and your kitty dependent on the cause. There is a very common oral tumor in cats called squamous cell carcinoma but this should be confirmed with needle sampling (cytology) or biopsy. If a mass was noted and your vet is afraid this is a tumor you can request referral to a veterinary oncologist for further help with your kitty. If you don't have an oncologist in your area you could also see a veterinary dentist or surgeon for assessment and sampling. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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