Hello there! It sounds like you’re taking great care of your cat, and it’s understandable to be concerned about a new bump after surgery. Post-operative lumps can occur and are sometimes part of the normal healing process. Here are a few possibilities:
1. **Seroma:** This fluid-filled pocket sometimes appears near the incision site. It’s usually soft, painless, and might go away on its own.
2. **Suture Reaction:** Occasionally, the body reacts to the stitches, causing a small bump. This can resolve as healing continues.
3. **Infection or Abscess:** If the lump feels warm, is red, swollen, or if your cat seems uncomfortable or has a fever, it might be an infection.
Keep an eye on the bump. If it grows, doesn’t improve over a few days, or if you notice any discharge, your cat becomes lethargic, stops eating, or seems in pain, those could be signs of a more serious issue needing veterinary attention.
At home, make sure your cat isn’t licking or scratching the incision, which might mean using an e-collar briefly. Keep the area clean and dry, and follow any post-op care instructions your vet has provided.
If the bump looks concerning or you're unsure about what you're seeing, it might be a good idea to book a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet for peace of mind. Take care!
Clinically Approved Standard by Dial A Vet Veterinary Team
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