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My senior dog has a painless throat lump. Is it cancer? What to do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | unneutered | 15 lbs

My dog is 11 years old and prances around like he is a puppy he eats well and goes to the bathroom my worry is that he has lump on his throat is doesnt hurt him when I touch it or feel around it ..I look up some pictures to see what it is an it shows that it is lymphoma I just want to make sure it is cancer and what I can do

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 13th, 2017

Unfortunately, cancer is always a possibility in a senior dog like Mufasa. Any suspicious lumps should be examined by the vet. The vet can perform a test called a fine needle aspirate on it. To do this, the vet sticks a small needle into the lump to get a sample of it's cells, and examines the cells on a slide under a microscope. It's usually painless to the animal, and relatively quick to perform. I would have Mufasa seen by a vet tomorrow to have the lump examined and diagnosed so it can be treated.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Lauren Celestin, DVM
Veterinarian, Veterinary Dentistry Resident
Hello! While Mufasa is an older dog and cancer has to be a consideration, there are other possibilities. Depending on the location of the lump, a veterinarian may be able to give you a general idea of what structures may be affected; however, the only way to know if it is cancer or not to get a sample of the cells or tissue. A tissue sample or biopsy is more invasive, but would give a definitive answer. A cytology, where a needle is placed in the lump and the cells are examined under a microscope is less invasive, but not as reliable. I recommend having Mufasa seen by his veterinarian for a complete physical examination, thorough palpation of the lump, +/- blood work, and an open discussion regarding the options and what you feel is best for Mufasa.
0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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