My Dog’s Long-Standing Lump Has Changed Significantly – What Should I Do?

Dear VetBabble

I’ve noticed a significant change in my dog’s long-standing lump – What should I do?

I’ve been keeping an eye on this small lump on my dog’s upper left rib area for about three years, but just yesterday, it expanded rapidly and started to bleed. Could it have become infected and do I need to take him urgently to the vet for a proper examination and treatment?

Understanding Concerns About Lumps on Pets

Seeing a lump suddenly increase in size and start to bleed on your pet can be quite alarming. It’s not uncommon though for pet owners to notice unusual lumps and bumps on their beloved furry companions. The nature of these growths can vary a lot. Some lumps stay small and are essentially harmless, while others could indicate underlying health problems, which is why a vet check is always worth considering.

It’s crucial to monitor any changes in these lumps, as they can potentially be a sign of serious health issues. For more insights on this, you might find our article on when to worry about lumps and bumps very useful.

When to Urgently Visit a Vet

If your pet’s lump has suddenly changed dramatically in size, this should definitely spark a physical examination by a vet. With any lump, there’s a risk of it becoming infected, which might explain the rapid enlargement and bleeding you’ve noticed. Depending on the character of the lump, where it’s located and how it impacts your pet’s comfort or mobility, a vet visit should be a priority.

For instance, imagine your pet has a lump near his leg that suddenly enlarges and starts to cause discomfort or difficulty in movement. This would be a clear case signaling the need for immediate vet attention. Such scenarios are just as serious as seeing him develop a limp, a potential indicator of pain or an injury. Check out our piece on why dogs limp and when to worry to understand when limps should trigger concern.

Underlying Health Conditions That May Cause Lumps

While it’s true that most lumps are benign, there are cases where a lump could be a symptom of a more significant medical issue. For instance, lumps along with other symptoms might be indicative of a liver disease, a common condition in dogs. Our article on liver disease in dogs explains comprehensively how such issues can manifest physically.

It’s also important to remember that large, rapidly expanding lumps on your pet’s abdomen could be symptomatic of a life-threatening condition known as bloat, especially if it’s accompanied by other telling signs like excessive drooling, restlessness or attempts to vomit. You can find in-depth information on how to spot bloat early on in our guide on the warning signs of bloat.

Pet owners embody a crucial role in their pet’s health, but when it comes to identifying a significant health problem, it’s always wise to consult a professional veterinarian. While our website provides many resources for common pet health issues, it’s never a substitute for a proper veterinary examination. We are here to assist you in keeping your pet healthy because we know how much they mean to you!