Lump and Bump Check for dogs and cats in Surry Hills, NSW
Most skin lumps are harmless, yet some need treatment. A quick check with gentle sampling can tell us what a lump is, how urgent it is, and what to do next. Early action means smaller procedures, clearer margins and fewer worries.
Last updated: 1 November, 2025
When to book
- A new lump, or a known lump that grows or changes
- Bleeding, ulceration, discharge or repeated licking
- Lumps in the mouth, on eyelids or near joints
- Multiple small nodules that seem to be spreading
What happens at the appointment
We map and measure each lump and photograph it for your record. Where indicated, we perform a fine-needle aspirate. This uses a small needle to collect a few cells for in-house screening or laboratory cytology. For tricky spots or deeper masses we discuss biopsy or imaging. You will hear a clear recommendation with timeframes.
Results and next steps
Once results return, we explain the type of mass, likely behaviour and the best plan. Many benign lesions can be watched on a schedule. Others are removed with margins suited to their biology. We provide a written home-care guide and recheck dates so changes are not missed.
Prevention and monitoring at home
Run a monthly “hand scan” during a calm pat session. Note location, size and texture. Short coat photos on a phone make comparison simple. Seek review if a lump doubles in size, changes colour, becomes sore, or bothers your pet.
Frequently asked questions
Most pets tolerate it well, similar to a vaccine.
No. Decisions depend on type, size, location and your pet’s comfort.
Many results return in a few days. We call as soon as they arrive.
A fine-needle aspirate uses a small needle — similar in size to a vaccination needle — to collect a few cells from the lump. It takes seconds, rarely needs sedation, and the sample is either examined in-house or sent to a laboratory for analysis. It's the quickest way to find out what a lump is without surgery.
In dogs, we frequently see lipomas (fatty lumps), sebaceous cysts, histiocytomas, warts, and mast cell tumours. In cats, common lumps include abscesses from cat fights, injection-site swellings, and skin tumours. Many are benign, but some look harmless on the outside and need sampling to confirm.
Yes, although it is less common. Certain tumours such as histiocytomas and mast cell tumours can appear in pets under five. Age alone is not a reliable guide, which is why we recommend sampling any new or changing lump regardless of your pet's age.
If you have just noticed a new lump, it is best to book a check rather than wait. While monitoring, run a monthly hand scan during a calm pat session, note the lump's size and texture, and take a phone photo for comparison. Come in sooner if a lump doubles in size, changes colour, becomes sore, or bothers your pet.
.svg)
