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My dog has a scaly horn-like growth above his eye. What is it?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Siamese | Male | neutered | 19 years old

Maximus is active, eats well, and is very loving. However, he has a growth above his left eye (not on the eyelid). It starts as a scaly gray spot about 2.5 mm in diameter and in about three weeks grows out like a conical 'horn,' perhaps to 4 mm in length. When it breaks off, it leaves an open wound that is re but not bleeding freely that scabs over and begins to grow again. Is it a squamous cell carcinoma? It's near his eye, what can be done?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on May 7th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be a benign or malignant growth. There is no way of knowing what it is just based on its appearance. 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 day!
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