A Growing Lump on the Side of a Dog's Face

Please don't try to drain it yourself. An abscess is usually warm, painful and soft, and it often shows up within a few days of a bite or wound. A lump that has been there over a week, is getting bigger, and isn't red or sore may not be an abscess at all. It could be a cyst, a growth, a reaction, or an infected tooth root, which commonly causes swelling on the cheek or below the eye. Cutting into it can cause bleeding and infection, and it won't fix any of these.

It's also safest to stop the antihistamine unless a vet has said it's fine. Some allergy products for people are combined with decongestants that are toxic to dogs, and an antihistamine won't shrink most lumps anyway.

Because it's growing, it should be checked. A vet can usually tell a lot from a quick look in the mouth and a needle sample. Go right away if her eye becomes swollen or pushed out, she has trouble eating or opening her mouth, the swelling grows fast, or she seems sick or feverish. If cost is a worry, ask your vet about a payment plan, or look for a low-cost clinic, humane society clinic or veterinary school near you.

See lumps and bumps on dogs.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.