Lumps, Bumps, and How We Manage Them

When your pet develops a lump or bump, it can be worrisome — is it something serious, or nothing to be concerned about at all? As our pets get older, it’s common for them to develop various lumps, and while many are harmless, it’s always best to know for sure.

Certain breeds, like Labradors, are more prone to developing fatty lumps (lipomas), which are often benign. However, depending on their location, these lumps can sometimes make it difficult for your pet to move comfortably, or in some cases, they can turn out to be something more concerning.

The first and most important step in assessing a lump or bump is to take a sample. The simplest and least invasive way to do this is through a fine needle aspirate (FNA). During this quick procedure, we use a small needle to collect a sample from the lump, then place it on a microscope slide, stain it, and analyze it using our Imagyst system.

Our Imagyst technology helps us identify what type of lump it might be. If anything looks suspicious, we can also send the sample to a pathologist for further evaluation. This process typically takes about 24 hours, giving us fast and accurate results so we can decide on the best next steps.

If the results suggest the lump should be removed, we’ll discuss scheduling surgery. If it’s harmless, we’ll simply keep an eye on it and monitor for changes. Some lumps remain stable for years, while others can grow quickly — which is why annual exams are especially important for senior pets. Regular check-ups help us document and track any new or changing lumps early, ensuring your pet stays happy and healthy.