Tell Us What You Think

 🎧 SUMMARY 

Finding a lump on your dog or cat can be scary, but it doesn’t always mean cancer. Lumps and bumps are one of the most common and anxiety-provoking reasons pet parents visit the veterinarian. In this episode of Tails of Truth, Dr. Angie Krause and veterinary nurse JoJo break down what those lumps actually mean, how to monitor them, and when it’s time to take action.

You’ll learn the key differences between dermal vs subcutaneous masses, why cats are not supposed to be lumpy, and why Dr. Angie follows the rule, “If you see something, do something.” The conversation covers common and concerning diagnoses including lipomas (fatty tumors), mast cell tumors, melanoma, oral tumors, mammary gland tumors, aural hematomas, squamous cell carcinoma, and vaccine- or injection-site sarcomas in cats.

Dr. Angie explains how fine needle aspirates work, why eyes and hands alone aren’t enough to diagnose cancer, and how changes in size, texture, or behavior should never be ignored. They also discuss breed predispositions (including boxers), age-related considerations, and how quality of life plays into decision-making.

This episode is a compassionate, practical guide to helping pet parents feel empowered — not panicked — when they find something new on their dog or cat.

🧠 KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Not all lumps are cancer, but you can’t diagnose by touch alone
• Cats are not supposed to be lumpy — any mass deserves attention
• Mast cell tumors are one of the most common dermal cancers in dogs
• Lipomas are usually benign
• Fine needle aspirates are a low-risk, high-value diagnostic tool
• Oral tumors are commonly missed
• Injection-site sarcomas are rare but serious in cats
• Your eyes are not microscopes — cells matter
• Quality of life should guide decision-making
• Pet parents are essential medical advocates

 💬 SOUND BITES

“Anytime I see a bump on a cat, I do something about it.”  ~ Dr. Angie 

“Tumor is a scary word" ~ JoJo 

“Your eyes are not microscopes.”  ~ Dr. Angie

“Most of the time, fatty tumors that feel like fatty tumors really are fatty tumors.”  ~ Dr. Angie 

“Don’t be embarrassed — this happens all the time.”  ~JoJo

“Oral tumors are easy to miss.”  ~ Dr. Angie 

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Please subscribe and review! xoxo Dr. Angie & JoJo