In previous articles regarding senior pets we have discussed the aches and pains associated with aging. In this article we will talk about the “lumps and bumps” that many of us start to notice on our pets as they reach their senior years. These growths (warts, cysts, and lipomas) have the potential to appear in all aging pets, however, some breeds may be more prone to developing them.
The most common types of growths that owners notice on their pet's skin are papillomas or “warts”. These growths are most often benign and do not require surgical intervention unless they are becoming bothersome for the pet. Signs that warrant surgical removal include incessant licking, sudden redness, oozing, swelling, or bleeding.
Also typical of the aging pet are sebaceous cysts. These growths are caused by a blocked sebaceous or “oil” gland. They can appear and go away on their own but in some instances these growths can rupture and require medical attention to prevent secondary infection. For those cysts that continually reappear or become large and uncomfortable to the pet, surgical excision may be required.
The third most common growth that owners often notice is the lipoma or “fatty growth”. A lipoma is a collection of fat cells that develops under the skin. In some instances these growths develop and stop growing. However some lipomas can continue to grow into very large masses and become uncomfortable for the pet, particularly if they are located in an area of movement such as the underarm or groin. In rare cases, lipomas can become malignant or cancerous growths. For this reason, close monitoring with your veterinarian to determine when and if surgical intervention is needed is best.
When any of the above growths are discovered on physical exam, the veterinarian may recommend a fine needle aspirate of the growth. This sampling of the mass with a needle attempts to extract a few cells from the growth for microscopic analysis. This may help to determine if the growth warrants surgical removal. Although it may appear to be one of these “typical” benign growths, any growth can potentially be something more serious.
Many of the growths discussed above are discovered by pet owners while they are bathing or grooming their pets. It is important to mention to your veterinarian when you discover a new growth on your pet at each visit even if they do not appear to be bothering them. By having a notation of the size and location of the growths in question, you and your veterinarian can monitor these growths and decide the best course of treatment for your pet. Be sure to talk to our veterinarians at your pet’s next exam if you have any concerns about a growth that you have found on your pet. |
For this spotlight we are pleased to announce the addition of a new prescription diet to our shelves. Hill’s Science Diet has developed Y/D for cats, a diet that nutritionally treats and manages the condition hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is a condition characterized by an overactive thyroid. Hyperthyroid cats frequently experience reduced quality of life through weight loss, muscle deterioration, chronic vomiting or chronic diarrhea. Iodine levels are key to the maintenance and health of the thyroid gland. When overactive, the thyroid gland utilizes excess iodine from the cat's diet to create more thyroid hormone. By limiting iodine intake, thyroid hormone levels may be controlled. Patients on Y/D cannot be fed any other foods such as treats as these contain iodine and will void the effects of the prescription diet. This diet is ideal for patients who are difficult to medicate as well as those that are sensitive to the side effects of treatment through medication. Talk to our veterinarians today to see if your cat is an ideal candidate for treatment through nutrition for this disease.
