Help, I'm really worried about my cat and don't know what to do. I just noticed a strange mass in my cat Bella’s stomach area while I was petting her this evening. She's always been such a playful and healthy kitty, so seeing something like this is super concerning. It's not small either, feels like the size of a marble, and it doesn't seem to cause her pain when I touch it, but she's been acting a bit off lately—less active and not as eager to eat as she usually is. Unfortunately, it’s late and all the vets near me are closed. I’m feeling so lost and unsure if this can wait until morning or if I need to find an emergency option ASAP. Has anyone else experienced something like this? Any advice would be greatly appreciated—I just want to make sure Bella is okay.
Thanks for reaching out; I understand how concerning it can be to discover a mass on your cat's stomach, especially when your vet's office is closed. Let's try to break this down together.
A mass in your cat's abdomen could be due to various reasons, some as simple as a harmless lipoma, which is a fatty growth, or it could be an abscess, cyst, or even a more serious tumor. Sometimes, these masses might be due to an organ enlargement, which is why getting a professional opinion is important.
At home, keep an eye on your cat's behavior for any changes such as decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. Gently palpate the area around the mass and see if your cat shows signs of pain, such as hissing or trying to escape. Try to note the size, shape, and feel of the mass; this information can be helpful for your vet.
It's crucial to watch for indicators of a more serious issue, such as rapid breathing, increased vocalization indicating pain, or if your cat stops using the litter box. These symptoms warrant immediate veterinary attention.
In light of this, I encourage you to book a video consult with Dial A Vet so we can further discuss what's going on and decide on the next steps for your feline friend. Take care!
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