A bump or nodule on the lower lip of a cat has many potential causes including cancer.

The cat’s lower lip bump must be checked immediately to rule out a serious cause.

It’s very important to routinely check your cat’s body for any new bumps, sores, lesions or anything that doesn’t seem to belong there.

What sometimes appears is a bump or nodule on a cat’s lower lip. What can this be?

“As a small-animal veterinarian, I commonly see skin conditions in cats which may present as scabbing, hair loss and masses (or bumps),” says Dr. Alison Birken, DVM, with Victoria Park Animal Hospital in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

“Cats will sometimes present with a bump on their lower lip, which seems to be an unusual place to pop up.

“First and foremost, I always recommend a thorough evaluation by your veterinarian when any bumps or masses arise.

“Cancer needs to be the number one diagnosis that we rule out.”

There are different types of cancer that can form bumps, nodules or lesions on a cat’s body, and the lower lip is not exempt from the location of these masses.

Dr. Streit continues, “Once cancer has been ruled out by your veterinarian, there are some other causes that are unique to cats that can cause a bump on the lower lip.

“Sometimes cats develop what are called rodent ulcers, a collection of inflammatory cells that create a bump or sometimes ulcer-like appearance on the lip.

“Many times, ‘rodent ulcers’ are caused by allergies such as an allergy to plastic feeding bowls.

“It is important to work with your veterinarian to treat the inflammation, but also to try and discover the allergen causing the inflammation.”

When in doubt, have it checked out, when it comes to the health of your cat or kitten.

Dr. Streit urges, “If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian. They are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.”

Since being old enough to barely speak, Dr. Birken knew that she wanted to be a veterinarian.
Lorra Garrick has been covering medical, fitness and cybersecurity topics for many years, having written thousands of articles for print magazines and websites, including as a ghostwriter. She’s also a former ACE-certified personal trainer. 

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