>
>
>
Hi, my 16yr old ( normally healthy) cat has a half walnut sized lump on her ribcage, no trauma has been involved, the local vet says it could be a tumor and wants to anaesthatise her, xray her, take a biopsy and take bloods. Is this common practice.? Can he not diagnose purely by taking a biopsy.?? I feel like they are trying to get as much money out of us as possible.... Thank you
Updated On January 21st, 2020
Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 15 years and 9 months old
Answered By Ana M, DVM 217
Veterinarian
This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.
View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.
Thank you for submitting your question regarding Milly. I will typically start with a procedure known as a fine needle aspirate. I use a small needle to collect a sample of cells to evaluate under the microscope. This can help to diagnose the mass. It is not as accurate as a biopsy, but it generally gives a lot of information. The cat needs to hold still and cooperate though. So cats are different to draw blood on awake. This may have been why the recommendation was made to anesthetize her and collect all the samples at once. I hope this information helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Other Answers
Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!