An Old Fatty Lump That Became Hard and Warm

A lump that has been there a long time but has recently become harder, warm and uncomfortable should be seen by a vet within the next few days. A change like this can have several causes. The lump may be inflamed or infected, there may be bleeding inside it, or it may not be a simple fatty lump after all. Some fatty tumors grow into the surrounding muscle, and other types of tumor can look and feel similar.

Your vet will usually start with an exam and a needle sample, which is quick and much less expensive than surgery. Depending on what it shows, the next step might be a biopsy, treatment for infection, or a plan for removal. You can ask for an estimate before anything is done.

Go sooner, or to an emergency vet, if the lump grows quickly, opens up or drains, he has a fever, stops eating, seems lethargic, or is in obvious pain. 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 lipomas in dogs and lumps and bumps on dogs.

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