Funny lump on my lab’s eyelid

AQ

My four-year-old neutered female labrador retriever has what looks like a small growth on her upper eyelid. Is this something to mention to the vet or could it wait? Generally I don’t advise a wait-and-see approach with growths – the sooner they are looked at the better, so I recommend you book an appointment. Eyelid growths are quite common in dogs and there are various things that can cause them.

Most are benign, meaning they don’t usually spread. Some are malignant, however, and these tend to grow quite quickly, and may ulcerate and spread.

Of the benign ones, papillomas (warts) are the most common. They, along with another growth called histiocytoma, can occasionally disappear without treatment.

A cyst is another possibility, as they can look like growths.

If left untreated, however, many eyelid growths will continue increasing in size and this can lead to several problems.

Firstly, the growth may rub on the cornea – the outermost part of the eye – causing irritation and weeping. The eye will become red and inflamed and the dog may squint in pain.

Secondly, an operation to remove the growth will be more complicated, as it may require removing part of the eyelid.

On the other hand, removal of eyelid growths when they are small is usually quick and straightforward, although a short general anaesthetic is required. Q

My five-year-old female neutered cat has been diagnosed with idiopathic cystitis. Our vet has done lots of tests,

which have been frustratingly negative, although there has been some progress with painkillers and a change of diet. Is this a common problem?

AYes, feline idiopathic (which means “no known cause”) cystitis is a common problem.

There are a number of causes of inflammation of the bladder. These include the formation of crystals in the urine, bacterial infections and bladder cancer, although this would be unlikely in a young cat.

A diagnosis of idiopathic cystitis is done by a process of elimination, hence the tests that your vet has performed.

Each test, which can involve an analysis of urine and blood, along with X-rays and sometimes ultrasound, rules out a certain problem.

Knowing that your cat doesn’t have certain diseases is a positive in my view. However, I do understand that it is a bit frustrating to be told your cat has an idiopathic condition.

This diagnosis does not mean that treatment is not possible, because plenty is known about risk factors and treatment protocols.

Stress is one common problem, particularly in indoor cats, which is often due to conflict with other cats.

Being overweight and not exercising is a factor, while eating a dry diet with inadequate water can also contribute.

Encouraging urination by changing to a wet diet, along with stress reduction, is routine advice.

Your vet is obviously on top of the problem, aiming to prevent a recurrence, and therefore the outlook should hopefully be favourable.