Finding a lump or bump on your pet can be worrying; however, a veterinary diagnosis can help determine the cause and guide the next steps, as some lumps require more care or monitoring than others. These growths can range from warts and skin tags to lipomas and tumours.
Lumps and bumps can develop in animals at any stage of life. From a holistic perspective, factors such as diet, environmental exposures, immune balance, hormonal changes and metabolic stress may all influence how tissues grow and repair themselves over time. Minor skin growths, cysts or fatty deposits can sometimes form as the body responds to irritation, inflammation or changes within the internal environment.
Lumps and bumps are commonly seen in older animals; however, age itself is not the cause. As animals age, the body’s natural systems that support cellular balance, detoxification and immune function may become less efficient, which can contribute to the development of growths. Any lump should always be assessed by a veterinarian to determine its nature, after which holistic care may help support the body’s overall balance and wellbeing.
We are always here to help support animals and their lumps and bumps with holistic care, working alongside veterinary guidance to support your pet’s overall wellbeing.
Common Types of Lumps & Bumps in Pets
A few of the more frequently seen lumps and bumps include:
🟡 LIPOMAS (Fatty Lumps)
Soft, slow growing fatty deposits that develop under the skin. These are common in older or overweight dogs and are usually benign.
Some natural products that may help support dogs with lipomas include – Herbal Tonics – (contact us for details), Supa Greens, Zeolite and L-Carnitine.
🟡 WARTS
Small, cauliflower-like skin growths commonly associated with papilloma viruses. They are generally harmless but may cause irritation depending on their size and location on the body.
Some natural products that may help support pets with warts include – Thuja Cream, Cod Liver Oil and Vitamin C. We have also created a Wart Support PDF, simply send us an email to get a copy of the PDF.
🟡 CYSTS
Fluid or material filled sacs that form beneath the skin. Sebaceous cysts are relatively common and may appear as small round bumps.
Some natural products that may help support pets with cysts include – SuperHeal, Turmeric, Gumby Gumby and NPS Immune Support.
🟡 INSECT BITES OR STINGS
Sudden lumps that appear quickly may sometimes be caused by insect bites, bee stings or allergic reactions. These often resolve within a short period but should be monitored.
Some natural products that may help support pets with insect bites or stings include – Greenpet Colloidal Silver, Herbal Tonics – (contact us for details), NPS Skin Soothing Spray and Neempet Pet & Equine Spray.
🟡 EQUINE SARCOIDS
Common skin tumours in horses thought to be associated with bovine papillomavirus. They may appear as small nodules, wart-like growths or larger ulcerated lesions and can vary greatly in size and appearance.
Some natural products that may help support horses with sarcoids include – Herbal Equine SARCO Support, SuperHeal, Turmericle Golden Gel, Turmericle Powder.
🟡 EQUINE MELANOMAS
Dark pigmented tumours commonly seen in grey horses, often developing under the tail, around the anus, lips or throat latch. Some remain stable while others may slowly enlarge.
Some natural products that may help support horses with melanomas include – SuperHeal, Turmericle Golden Gel, Turmericle Powder, Herbal Equine Immuno.
🟡 HAEMATOMAS
Localised swellings caused by blood collecting beneath the skin, usually following trauma or injury. They often appear as soft, fluid-filled lumps that may gradually resolve over time. Cool compresses or cold packs may sometimes help support comfort and reduce swelling in the early stages.
Some natural products that may help support animals with haematomas include – Homeopathy, Arnica Cream and Herb Gel.
🟡 HIVES (Urticaria)
Raised, itchy swellings on the skin that often appear suddenly due to an allergic reaction, such as to insect bites, foods, medications, plants or environmental triggers. They may come and go quickly and can vary in size across the body.
Some natural products that may help support pets with hives include – Homeopathy, Quercetin or high dose Vitamin C.
🟡 SKIN TAGS
Small soft growths that hang from the skin and are often seen in older pets. Skin tags are usually benign and may develop due to friction, ageing or changes in skin tissue. They are commonly found on areas such as the neck, chest, armpits or eyelids. While they are typically harmless, any new or changing growth should always be checked by a veterinarian.
Some natural products that may help support pets with skin tags include – SuperHeal, Greenpet Colloidal Silver and Thuja Cream.
🟡 ABSCESSES
Localised swellings filled with pus that often develop after a bite wound, scratch or infection. These can be painful and may require veterinary treatment but when caught early, may benefit from homeopathic support.
Some natural products that may help support pets with abscesses include – Homeopathy, SuperHeal, Greenpet Colloidal Silver and Herbal Tonics – (contact us for details).
🟡 TUMOURS OR CANCEROUS GROWTHS
Some lumps may represent abnormal tissue growth. While many tumours are benign, others may be malignant. This is why any new lump should always be examined by a veterinarian.
Some natural products that may help support pets with tumours or cancerous growths include –Turkey Tail Mushroom, Turmeric, NPS Vital Support and Gumby Gumby.
Holistic Support for Pets with Lumps & Bumps
A holistic approach focuses on supporting the body’s natural balance and overall wellbeing. This may include:
• Nutritionally balanced, species appropriate diets
• Herbal and nutritional supplements
• Support for immune health and detoxification
• Managing inflammation and metabolic balance
• Supporting healthy skin and tissue function
At Greenpet we offer a wide range of natural products and practitioner designed formulas that may help support animals experiencing lumps, bumps or abnormal tissue growth.
Helpful Resources
We’ve also created several Holistic Support Guides to help pet owners better understand these conditions:
• Canine Lipoma Holistic Support Guide
• Canine Cancer Holistic Support Guide
• Feline Cancer Holistic Support Guide
These guides explore possible contributing factors, dietary considerations and natural support strategies.
Need Help Choosing the Right Support?
Every animal is different. If you would like help selecting suitable products for your pet, our team is happy to assist. You can also ask our naturopath a question here.
