Our Vets are Available 🟢
Dial A Vet Logo
🐾 Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet Clinic
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial GuidelinesNewsletter
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
💵 Pricing📖 How it Works📧 Contact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

Lump on neck of cat

I'm really struggling and could use some advice. I recently noticed a small, hard lump on the side of my cat's neck, and I'm trying not to freak out. My cat, Whiskers, is pretty young at only five, and she's always been so healthy and energetic. Honestly, my first thought was that she got into some kind of tussle with the neighborhood strays or maybe had a bad reaction to something she got into during her adventures outside. She seems unfazed by it, still eating and playing as usual, but I can't shake this nagging worry. Has anyone else dealt with something like this? Am I overreacting by considering calling the vet straight away? I’d really appreciate any thoughts or similar experiences you all might have had. Thanks in advance for the help!

Answer:

Hello! I understand you’re worried about the lump on your cat's neck, and I'm here to help. Lumps can appear for various reasons, so it's good you're keeping an eye on it.



Common causes might include an abscess, which is often due to a bite or scratch that got infected, or it could be a benign growth like a cyst or lipoma. Sometimes cats develop firm masses like fibromas or even more concerning tumors, especially as they age.



At home, you can gently check the lump. Observe if it's soft or firm, painful to touch, or if it’s growing. If your cat allows, try cleaning the area lightly with lukewarm water and monitor it for any changes.



Keep an eye out for worrying signs such as rapid growth, redness, swelling, discharge, or if your kitty seems unwell—like if they're lethargic, have a reduced appetite, or are more irritable. These could indicate an infection or something that requires immediate attention.



For a clearer understanding, booking a video consult with one of our vets on Dial A Vet can be very helpful. They can guide you through what steps to take next and offer peace of mind. Looking forward to helping you ensure your furry friend is healthy and happy!

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 19, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
Did we make the right choice euthanizing my dog?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Does anyone know what this mark on my cats ear is?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cat Transdermal Hyperthyroid Medication and Human Contact
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Did I make the right decision euthanizing my kitten with FIP?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support—anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicFree Teachers lesson plansGasTexts: Free Gas Prices TextedCheersVC
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links