After a cat has been spayed, it’s natural for pet owners to keep a close eye on the healing process. One of the most common concerns that comes up is the appearance of a lump near or under the incision site. If you recently noticed a cat spay incision lump, you’re not alone. Many pet owners in Acworth, GA have questions about what this could mean and whether it calls for a veterinary visit. In this blog, we’ll walk through what to look for, when to contact your veterinarian, and why follow-up care matters.
What Does a Cat Spay Incision Lump Look Like?
Appearance and Texture
After a spay surgery, some mild swelling at the incision site is expected. However, when a distinct lump appears near or underneath the incision, it can be surprising and even alarming. A cat spay incision lump may vary in size, texture, and location. In many cases, the lump is small, soft, and just under the skin. It may also feel firmer, especially if it involves underlying tissue.
Normal Healing Responses
This type of lump could be part of a normal healing response. For example, some cats develop a small, firm swelling known as a suture reaction. This is the body’s way of responding to internal stitches, particularly if the sutures are slow to dissolve. On the other hand, a more noticeable lump, especially one that grows over time, may indicate something else that needs evaluation.
When to Be Concerned
If the lump appears red, hot, or painful to the touch, or if it begins to drain fluid or pus, it’s important to contact your veterinarian. At Mills Animal Hospital in Acworth, GA, our team is here to help you assess changes after your cat’s surgery. Please call us at (770) 903-5995 if you have concerns about a cat spay incision lump.
Common Causes of a Cat Spay Incision Lump
There are several reasons a cat might develop a lump after a spay procedure. Some causes are part of the normal healing process, while others require medical attention.
Suture Reactions
Suture reactions are one of the most common reasons a cat spay incision lump forms. In these cases, the body reacts to the material used for internal stitches. Some lumps form as the tissue around the suture becomes inflamed, and while it can seem worrisome, it usually resolves over time without treatment. The lump may feel firm and sit just beneath the surface of the skin. In some cases, it can persist for several weeks before the body fully absorbs the stitches. Unless the area becomes painful, swollen, or shows signs of infection, a suture reaction generally isn’t cause for concern.
Seromas
A seroma is a pocket of fluid that develops under the skin near the incision site. These fluid-filled lumps are soft, fluctuate when touched, and usually appear within a few days of surgery. Seromas often develop if a cat is especially active too soon after the spay procedure.
While seromas are generally harmless, they should still be evaluated to rule out infection. Keeping your cat calm and limiting their activity during the healing period can help reduce the chances of a seroma forming. If you’re unsure whether a lump might be a seroma, give Mills Animal Hospital a call at (770) 903-5995 so our veterinary team can take a closer look.
Incisional Hernias
In rarer cases, a cat spay incision lump may indicate an incisional hernia. This occurs when a gap in the abdominal wall allows internal tissue to push through the incision site. Hernias can feel soft or firm and may increase in size over time. Unlike suture reactions or seromas, hernias usually don’t resolve on their own and may require surgical correction. A hernia might also cause discomfort or interfere with your cat’s normal movement. If your cat seems to be in pain or the lump continues to grow, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Infections or Abscesses
A lump that becomes warm, red, or starts to leak pus may be a sign of infection. Abscesses can develop if bacteria enter the incision site and create a pocket of infection under the skin. These lumps often feel tender and can cause additional swelling in the surrounding area. Prompt veterinary care is important for suspected infections. Never try to treat a lump or drain it at home. Our team at Mills Animal Hospital can evaluate the area, provide appropriate treatment if needed, and help prevent complications. Reach out to us at (770) 903-5995 if you notice any of these signs.
What to Monitor During Healing
The days and weeks following your cat’s spay surgery are an important time for observation. Paying attention to how the incision looks and how your cat behaves can help you spot potential problems early. If you see a cat spay incision lump, take note of its size, shape, and texture. Use these signs as general guidelines for what to watch for:
- Mild swelling that does not grow or change in color
- A lump that is not painful and remains the same size
- Normal appetite, energy levels, and litter box habits
Conversely, any changes to the lump—such as rapid growth, heat, discharge, or your cat licking or biting at the area—should prompt a call to your veterinarian. A lump alone doesn’t always mean there’s a problem, but any additional symptoms increase the need for professional evaluation. Limiting activity, using an e-collar, and following your veterinarian’s post-operative instructions are all helpful in supporting recovery. If you’re unsure how to care for the incision or what signs to monitor, the team at Mills Animal Hospital can guide you through it.
When Is It Time to Schedule a Veterinary Visit?
Not every cat spay incision lump needs immediate veterinary care, but it’s always a good idea to check in if you’re unsure. Sometimes a quick visit offers peace of mind and helps avoid more serious issues later. You know your cat best, and if something about the incision seems unusual, trust your instincts. Here are situations where you should definitely call your vet:
- The lump is growing or changing in shape
- The area looks red or feels warm to the touch
- Your cat seems lethargic, uncomfortable, or stops eating
- There is any discharge or foul odor from the incision
Early evaluation allows your veterinarian to rule out complications and offer guidance on what to expect during recovery. Our team at Mills Animal Hospital can help you through every stage of post-surgical care. Please call us at (770) 903-5995 if you notice any changes in your cat’s incision site.