Lumps, Bumps, and Sudden Weight Loss in Senior Pets: When to Worry
- Dr. Liz Munro
- Sep 1
- 5 min read
Discovering an unusual lump on your pet or noticing they’ve lost weight can be unsettling - especially when these changes seem to come on suddenly. For many pet owners, these signs appear during gentle grooming sessions or while cuddling on the sofa. While some changes may be harmless signs of ageing, others could point to more serious health concerns. Knowing when to worry - and when to act - can make all the difference in your pet's comfort, quality of life, and overall prognosis.
This guide will help you understand what to look for, what these signs may mean, and when to consult your vet.
Contents
Lumps and Bumps: What They Might Be
As pets age, it's common to find lumps or bumps on their skin or just beneath the surface. These growths can vary widely in appearance, texture, and location - and while some are entirely benign, others may require medical attention. Here are some of the most common types of lumps:
Lipomas - Soft, fatty lumps that move easily under the skin. These are typically benign and common in older pets. They often don’t cause discomfort but may grow large enough to affect movement or comfort.
Warts, skin tags, or histiocytomas - These small growths are often harmless but may become irritated if your pet licks or scratches them.
Sebaceous cysts or abscesses - These can occur when a hair follicle becomes blocked or infected. They may swell, rupture, or ooze fluid.
Malignant tumours - This includes types like mast cell tumours, carcinomas, and soft tissue sarcomas. These lumps often grow quickly, may be painful or fixed in place, and should always be investigated by a vet.
It's impossible to tell the nature of a lump just by appearance or feel - only a vet can diagnose it properly.
When to Be Concerned About Lumps
Not all lumps are harmful, but some changes signal the need for urgent veterinary attention. If you observe any of the following signs, it's time to book an appointment:
A new lump that wasn’t there before
Rapid growth or sudden changes in size
A hard or immobile lump that doesn’t move freely under the skin
Changes in colour, texture, or the skin around the lump
Ulceration, bleeding, or discharge
Signs of pain, discomfort, or your pet flinching when touched
A cluster of multiple lumps appearing over a short period
Your vet may perform a Fine Needle Aspirate (FNA) to collect cells from the lump for analysis. If results are unclear or if there’s reason for concern, a biopsy or surgical removal may be advised to determine whether the lump is benign or malignant.
Sudden Weight Loss in Senior Pets
Noticing that your pet has lost weight - especially when it happens quickly or without changes in diet - can be worrying. Weight loss may be subtle at first, such as more prominent ribs or hip bones, but it can progress quickly if not addressed.
There are many reasons why senior pets may lose weight:
Dental disease - Pain from tooth decay or gum disease can make eating difficult or reduce appetite.
Kidney or liver disease - These common age-related conditions can lead to nausea, reduced appetite, or nutrient loss.
Diabetes or hyperthyroidism - Particularly in older cats, these conditions can cause weight loss even with normal or increased appetite.
Cancer - Tumours, especially those affecting the digestive system, may cause gradual or sudden weight loss.
Malabsorption or chronic gastrointestinal disease - These prevent the body from absorbing nutrients effectively, even when your pet is eating well.
Weight loss of more than 10% of your pet’s body weight over a short period should be considered significant and always warrants veterinary attention.
When to Visit Your Vet
It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to changes in your pet’s body. Veterinary input can provide reassurance - or early intervention, which may be life-saving.
Book a vet appointment if you notice:
A new or growing lump
Weight loss of 10% or more
Lethargy or reduced activity
Increased drinking or urination
Vomiting, diarrhoea, or appetite changes
Visible discomfort, pain, or behavioural shifts
At the vet, your pet will likely receive a thorough physical examination, and depending on symptoms, further diagnostics may include:
Blood and urine tests - To check for organ function, infection, or metabolic issues
Imaging - X-rays or ultrasound scans can identify internal tumours or organ abnormalities
Biopsy or aspirate testing - To determine the nature of any lump
The sooner issues are identified, the more options your vet will have to treat or manage the condition effectively.
Monitoring and What to Do at Home
Between veterinary visits, simple at-home checks can help catch problems early and make discussions with your vet more productive. During grooming or cuddle time, take a few moments each week to check your pet’s body:
Feel for lumps - Gently run your hands over your pet’s entire body, including under the armpits, along the chest, and around the belly and legs.
Track any lumps you find - Use your phone to take a photo, measure the size (e.g. with a ruler or coin for scale), and record the location and date.
Weigh your pet regularly - If you can, keep track of their weight every few weeks using household scales or during vet check-ups.
Monitor appetite and behaviour - Changes in eating habits, activity levels, or mood may signal health issues.
If your pet has lost weight, your vet may recommend nutrient-dense foods or appetite stimulants to help them regain condition - but always after diagnosing the cause. Never attempt to treat a lump yourself, even if it looks like a cyst or spot - this can lead to infection and delay proper care.
FAQs
Is it normal for older pets to lose weight?
Mild weight loss may be expected due to decreased activity or muscle mass. However, sudden or significant weight loss - especially more than 10% of body weight - should always be assessed by a vet.
Can benign lumps become cancerous?
Most benign lumps, such as lipomas or cysts, do not become cancerous. That said, any changes - especially in size, shape, or texture - should be checked. Only testing can confirm what kind of lump it is.
Can I ignore small lumps if my pet seems fine?
Small doesn’t always mean harmless. Some cancerous lumps start off small. It’s always best to have any new or unusual lump checked by your vet, even if your pet isn’t showing signs of illness.
Can I “pop” a cyst or lump at home?
No - trying to pop or drain a lump yourself can lead to infection, pain, and may make a proper diagnosis more difficult. Always consult a vet.
What if my pet has multiple harmless lumps?
Some pets, especially certain breeds, are prone to developing multiple lipomas or skin tags. These may be monitored rather than removed, but your vet should check each one to confirm they’re non-cancerous.
Comments