Cysts On Dogs: 7 Types, Treatments & When To Worry
Discover the various types of cysts on dogs, how to identify them, treatment options, and tips for maintaining your pet’s skin health.
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Types of Cysts on Dogs: Identification, Treatment & When to Worry
Cysts are a common occurrence in dogs and can appear as soft, firm, or fluid-filled lumps beneath the skin or even deeper within the body. While most canine cysts are benign and harmless, some can become problematic if infected, grow too large, or cause discomfort. Understanding the types of cysts, how to identify them, and knowing when to consult your veterinarian can help you keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
What Are Cysts?
A cyst is a closed, sac-like structure filled with fluid, pus, or solid material. Cysts can develop on the skin, inside organs, or even within the body cavities. They form for a variety of reasons, including blocked glands, trauma, infection, or underlying health conditions.
Why Do Dogs Get Cysts?
- Blocked glands or hair follicles â Oil or sweat glands can become clogged, especially in hairy breeds or dogs with oily skin.
- Genetics â Some breeds are more predisposed to certain cysts.
- Skin trauma or irritation â Scratches, insect bites, or chronic licking can lead to cyst formation.
- Infections or inflammation â Bacterial infections or inflammatory responses may trigger cyst development.
Common Types of Cysts on Dogs
There are several types of cysts that can affect dogs, each with its own characteristics and typical locations. Hereâs an overview of the most commonly seen cysts in dogs:
Sebaceous Cysts
What are they? Sebaceous cysts are among the most common cysts in dogs. They form when a sebaceous (oil) gland or its duct becomes blocked, causing a buildup of sebum (a waxy, oily substance).
- Appearance: Usually round, raised, and may feel soft or firm. They often have a white or bluish tinge and may have a small opening at the top.
- Location: Frequently found on the head, neck, and upper legs.
- Content: Filled with a thick, cheesy material that may be foul-smelling.
- Risk: Can become inflamed, rupture, or develop infections if traumatized or manipulated.
Follicular (Epidermoid) Cysts
What are they? Follicular cysts, also called epidermoid cysts, develop from inflamed hair follicles. They are common in dogs and often appear as round or oval lumps.
- Appearance: Usually firm and well-circumscribed. May have a dark center (blackhead-like) and can discharge keratin or pus if ruptured.
- Location: Commonly seen around the mouth, legs, neck, and trunk.
- Risk: May become infected or irritated, especially if a dog licks or chews at them.
False Cysts (Pseudocysts)
What are they? False cysts lack the epithelial lining found in true cysts. Theyâre typically caused by trauma, leading to fluid buildup in the tissue as the body reacts to the injury.
- Appearance: Soft, fluctuant swellings that may change size over time.
- Location: Can develop anywhere trauma has occurred.
- Resolution: Often resolve on their own as the tissue heals, although large or persistent false cysts may require veterinary intervention.
What others are reading
Apocrine Gland (Sweat Gland) Cysts
What are they? Formed from the sweat glands (apocrine glands) in a dogâs skin. These are less common than sebaceous or follicular cysts.
- Appearance: Small, fluid-filled sacs that may be clear or slightly yellowish.
- Location: Often found in the groin or anal area.
- Risk: Can become irritated or infected, especially if located in areas with high friction.
Pilar (Trichilemmal) Cysts
What are they? Cysts of the hair follicleâs outer root sheath, usually located on the dogâs head or neck. They are filled with keratin.
- Appearance: Firm, round, and often hairless over the cyst.
- Location: Head and neck regions, sometimes found on the back or trunk.
- Risk: Generally benign, but may grow and require removal if they cause discomfort.
Dermoid Cysts
What are they? Dermoid cysts are congenital (present from birth) and contain hair, skin, and sometimes sebaceous material. They are rare and usually diagnosed in young dogs.
- Appearance: Firm, immobile masses that may have hair protruding from them.
- Location: Back or midline, but can occur elsewhere.
- Risk: May become infected and are usually surgically removed.
Ovarian and Kidney Cysts
What are they? Unlike skin cysts, these form internally within the ovaries or kidneys. Most are benign but can cause organ dysfunction if large or numerous.
- Appearance: Not visible externally; diagnosed via imaging (ultrasound, x-rays).
- Symptoms: May be asymptomatic or cause abdominal swelling, pain, or signs of illness if they interfere with organ function.
Mast Cell Tumors: Not True Cysts
While not technically cysts, mast cell tumors can appear as lumps and are sometimes mistaken for benign cysts. These are cancerous and require prompt veterinary evaluation.
How to Identify a Cyst on Your Dog
Cysts may be confused with other lumps such as tumors, abscesses, or warts. Here are some identifying features:
- Soft, round, raised bump under the skin
- May be moveable or attached to underlying structures
- Skin over the cyst may look normal, or may be slightly discolored or inflamed
- Might ooze white, yellow, or cheesy material
- Generally non-painful, unless infected or ruptured
Symptoms to Watch For
Although most cysts are benign, monitoring for certain symptoms is important:
- Rapidly growing or changing lumps
- Pain, redness, or swelling around the lump
- Discharge that is bloody or foul-smelling
- Itchiness or your dog excessively licking or scratching the area
- Signs of discomfort, limping, or reluctance to move
- Multiple lumps appearing over a short period
Diagnosis: When to See Your Veterinarian
If you discover a new lump or bump on your dog, itâs best to schedule a veterinary checkup. Your veterinarian may perform:
- Physical examination: To identify the cyst type and assess for infection or pain.
- Fine needle aspiration: A small sample of cells is withdrawn for microscopic analysis to distinguish cysts from tumors.
- Biopsy: If the lump is suspicious or not responding to treatment, a section may be removed for laboratory analysis.
- Imaging: X-rays or ultrasound for deeper or internal cysts.
Treatment Options for Cysts in Dogs
The approach to treatment depends on the cyst type, size, location, and whether itâs causing problems.
- Monitoring: Many small, non-problematic cysts can simply be monitored for changes.
- Drainage: If a cyst is large or uncomfortable, your vet may drain the contents. Note: Cysts often refill, and this doesnât prevent recurrence.
- Surgical removal: Recommended for recurrent, painful, or infected cysts, as well as those interfering with your dogâs movement or comfort.
- Antibiotics: If infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed to address bacterial involvement.
- Laser therapy: Certain cyst types, such as sweat gland cysts, may be removed with laser therapy if available.
- Do NOT pop at home: Attempting to squeeze or lance a cyst at home increases infection risk and should be avoided.
Supporting Your Dogâs Skin Health
While not all cysts are preventable, there are steps you can take to help maintain your dogâs healthy skin and reduce the risk of cyst formation:
- Regular grooming to minimize clogged hair follicles and remove debris
- Use of veterinarian-approved shampoos to maintain a healthy skin barrier
- Balanced nutrition, especially diets rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat
- Prompt attention to wounds, cuts, or signs of skin irritation
- Scheduling routine veterinary check-ups for early detection of skin changes
Frequently Asked Questions About Canine Cysts
Q: Can I pop or drain my dogâs cyst at home?
A: No, itâs unsafe to attempt draining or squeezing a cyst at home. This increases infection risk and can make the problem worse. Always leave cyst treatment to a veterinarian.
Q: Are cysts on dogs cancerous?
A: Most cysts on dogs are benign and non-cancerous. However, some masses that look like cysts can be tumors, so itâs important to have new lumps checked by your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis.
Q: Do cysts hurt my dog?
A: Most cysts are painless unless they become infected, rupture, or are in an area that causes irritation. If you notice your dog licking, biting, or showing discomfort, consult your vet.
Q: Will a cyst go away on its own?
A: Some cysts, especially false cysts, may resolve on their own once the underlying issue heals. Others may persist or grow, requiring veterinary treatment.
Q: How are cysts in dogs prevented?
A: Prevention isnât always possible, but maintaining good skin hygiene, proper grooming, and feeding a balanced diet can reduce the risk. Address skin injuries and infections promptly to limit trauma-related cysts.
When to Call the Vet
- Lump is rapidly growing, changing color, or very painful
- Cyst is bleeding, oozing pus, or has a foul odor
- Multiple new lumps develop in a short time
- Your dog is lethargic, off food, or seems unwell
- Any lump that persists or recurs after home care
Prompt veterinary attention can help rule out serious causes and ensure your dog stays as comfortable and healthy as possible.
Summary Table: Types of Cysts on Dogs
| Cyst Type | Common Locations | Main Features | Typical Treatment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sebaceous Cyst | Head, neck, legs | Round, soft/firm, white or bluish, may discharge | Monitor, surgery if needed |
| Follicular Cyst | Mouth, legs, neck, trunk | Firm, round, may have central pore/discharge | Monitor, treat infection, surgery if recurrent |
| False Cyst | Anywhere after trauma | Fluctuant, soft, changes in size | Usually resolve, surgery if persistent |
| Apocrine Gland Cyst | Groin, anal area | Small, fluid-filled, yellowish | Drainage, laser, or surgical removal |
| Pilar (Trichilemmal) Cyst | Head, neck | Firm, round, hairless | Monitor, surgery if needed |
| Dermoid Cyst | Back, midline | Congenital, firm, may have hair protruding | Surgical removal |
| Ovarian/Kidney Cyst | Internal organs | Not visible; detected by imaging | Monitor or surgical intervention |
Conclusion
While discovering a cyst or lump on your dog can be worrisome, most cysts are harmless and easily managed. Timely veterinary evaluation and proper skin care are key to preventing complications and ensuring your petâs well-being. By keeping an eye on changes and adopting good hygiene and grooming practices, you can help your furry friend stay comfortable and happy for years to come.
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