A Lump on a Yorkie's Leg That Pushed Out a Hard Piece
by A reader
A lump that pushes out a hard or cheesy plug and then becomes red and inflamed is often a cyst or a hair follicle growth that has ruptured. The material inside (keratin) is very irritating when it gets into the surrounding skin, which explains the redness and licking. That said, some cancers, such as mast cell tumors, can also suddenly swell, redden and itch, so it's worth having your vet look at it and take a sample.
Until then, gently rinse the area with lukewarm water or sterile saline and pat it dry. Stop him licking with a cone, a soft recovery collar or a light sock or sleeve, because licking keeps it inflamed. Don't squeeze it. Please don't give human pain relievers: common ones such as ibuprofen, naproxen and acetaminophen can be dangerous for dogs. Also skip creams and ointments unless your vet okays them, since he'll lick them off.
See a vet sooner if it bleeds a lot, swells quickly, becomes hot or very painful, oozes pus, or he seems unwell.
See lumps and bumps on dogs and cysts on dogs.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
