Dear VetBabble,
What can I do for a fatty lump under my dog’s armpit, and how can I be sure it is actually a fatty lump?
When discovering a lump on your dog, it’s natural to be concerned and have questions about what to do next. This article will provide helpful information on identifying fatty lumps (lipomas) and what can be done about them if they are affecting your dog’s comfort and mobility. Additionally, we’ll explore some related articles in case you want to learn more about the topic. Let’s dive into understanding fatty lumps and when to take action.
Identifying a Fatty Lump
Lipomas are benign (non-cancerous) tumors made up of fat cells. They are generally soft, round, and often found under your dog’s skin, including the armpit area. A skilled veterinarian is usually able to identify a lipoma by its appearance, feel, and location on the dog’s body, but sometimes additional diagnostic methods such as fine-needle aspiration, ultrasound, or even biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. To learn more about identifying lumps and bumps on your dog’s body, check out this article: Lumps and Bumps: When to Worry.
Managing a Fatty Lump
If the lump under your dog’s armpit is indeed a lipoma, it generally does not pose any risks unless it is interfering with your dog’s movement, comfort, or overall well-being. If this is the case, surgical removal may be necessary to alleviate your dog’s discomfort. Before deciding to remove lipomas, remember that obesity can often lead to more fat deposits and make existing lipomas larger. So, if your dog is overweight, a weight management plan should be implemented to address the root cause. You can learn more about keeping your dog at a healthy weight by reading this article: Obesity in Dogs.
As you are concerned about your dog’s armpit lump, it’s a good idea to keep in mind other potential causes for lumps that might be present, such as swollen anal glands. These are often easily treatable but can lead to complications if left unattended. You can learn more about anal glands in this article: Anal Glands: What Are They and Do I Need to Express Them?.
Keep an Eye on the Lump
While lipomas are generally harmless, it’s crucial to monitor any lump on your dog, as some may indicate more serious underlying issues, such as cancer. If you notice any changes in the lump’s size, shape, or texture, or if your dog exhibits any other concerning symptoms, consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Learn more about cancer in dogs by reading this article: Cancer in Dogs: Facts, Symptoms, and What to Expect.
In conclusion, if the lump under your dog’s armpit is a lipoma, there is typically no cause for concern unless it impacts your dog’s comfort or mobility. However, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and tailored recommendations for managing the lump. Monitor the lump regularly, and keep in mind the importance of maintaining a healthy weight for your dog to prevent fat deposits from forming or growing larger.
