Cat Tumor or Cyst Found on Body After Exam

by Lisa
(Indiana)

I have learned to go over my cats with my hands about once a week to check for any issues and they seem to love the massage.

I discovered what feels like a fluid filled something just above my 9 year old cat's left rear hip joint. It is about the size of a gum ball. She doesn't seem to care if I mess with it.

I took her to the vet. They took some fluid out (no puss seen) and are sending it for a biopsy. I see no changes in behavior, eating, drinking or litter box issues.

Your thoughts?

Thank you for your time!

Vet Suggestion Cat Tumor or Cyst Found on Body

Hi,

From your description, I think there is a very good chance that the mass you found (good job with your exam, by the way!) will turn out to be benign – either a cyst or a non-cancerous tumor.

Hopefully, the biopsy results will tell you what you need to know. If there is any question as to what you are dealing with, it is generally best to have something like this removed while it is still small and the surgery is quick and easy.

Masses like you describe tend to just recur or get bigger with time unless they are completely removed.

Good luck,


Jennifer Coates, DVM