Understanding Fatty Lumps in Pets: What You Need to Know

Have you ever noticed a soft lump under your pet's skin and wondered what it might be? You're not alone. One of the most common types of lumps we see in dogs—and occasionally in cats—is a fatty tumour known as a lipoma. While the word ‘tumour’ can sound alarming, lipomas are usually benign (non-cancerous) and often harmless. However, it's essential to understand what they are, how they can affect your pet, and when to seek veterinary advice.

What Is a Lipoma?

A lipoma is a soft, fatty lump that grows under the skin. These tumours develop from fat cells and are typically slow-growing and painless. They can vary in size and are most commonly found on the chest, abdomen, or limbs. While lipomas are generally benign, they can sometimes grow large enough to cause discomfort or interfere with your pet's movement.

Are Lipomas Common?

Yes, lipomas are quite common, especially in middle-aged to older dogs. They are more frequently seen in overweight dogs and are twice as common in females as in males. Certain breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers, Weimaraners, and Doberman Pinschers, may be more predisposed to developing lipomas. In cats, lipomas are less common but can still occur, particularly in overweight individuals.

What Causes Lipomas?

The exact cause of lipomas is not well understood. However, factors such as age, genetics, and obesity may contribute to their development. It's important to note that while lipomas are benign, they should still be monitored for any changes in size, shape, or behaviour.

When Should You Be Concerned?

While most lipomas are harmless, there are instances when they can cause problems:

• Size and Location: Large lipomas or those located in areas that affect movement (like the armpits or thighs) can cause discomfort or mobility issues.
• Infiltrative Lipomas: These are a rarer form that can grow into surrounding muscles and tissues, making them more challenging to remove surgically.
• Liposarcomas: Although extremely rare, these malignant (cancerous) fatty tumours can resemble lipomas but have the potential to spread to other parts of the body.

Because it's difficult to distinguish between a benign lipoma and a more serious condition based solely on appearance, it's crucial to have any new or changing lumps examined by a veterinarian.

How Are Lipomas Diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination followed by one or more of the following tests:

• Fine-Needle Aspiration (FNA): A small needle is used to extract cells from the lump for microscopic examination. While this can often confirm a lipoma, it may not always provide a definitive diagnosis.

• Biopsy: A small tissue sample is surgically removed and examined in a laboratory to determine the exact nature of the lump.
• Imaging: In some cases, imaging techniques like ultrasound or MRI may be used to assess the extent of the lump, especially if it's located deep within the body.

Treatment Options

Not all lipomas require treatment. If the lump is small, not causing any discomfort, and isn't growing, I may recommend simply monitoring it. However, surgical removal may be advised if:

• The lipoma is large or growing rapidly.
• It's located in an area that affects your pet's mobility or comfort.
• There's uncertainty about whether the lump is a lipoma or a more serious tumour.

Surgical removal is typically straightforward, and most pets recover quickly. However, it's important to follow post-operative care instructions to ensure proper healing.

Post-Surgical Care

After surgery, you'll need to:

• Keep the incision site clean and dry.
• Prevent your pet from licking or scratching the area—using an Elizabethan collar can help.
• Monitor for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.
• Limit your pet's activity as advised by your vet to promote healing.

Monitoring for Recurrence

While surgical removal is often curative, it's possible for new lipomas to develop elsewhere on the body. Regular check-ups and monitoring for new lumps are essential, especially if your pet has had lipomas in the past.

When to Contact Highlands Veterinary Hospital?

If you've noticed a new lump on your pet, or if an existing lump has changed in size, shape, or is causing discomfort, it's important to have it evaluated. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent potential complications and ensure your pet's continued health and comfort.

Call us today at 4872 1144 to schedule an appointment.

NOTE: The previous information is of a general nature only and not to be taken as specific or individual advice.