Tumor Removal & Biopsy for Large Animals

Safe, Professional Surgical Care for Lumps, Masses, and Growths in Livestock

Lumps and abnormal growths in large animals may be harmless—or they could indicate a more serious underlying condition. At Whittington Veterinary Clinic, we offer thorough evaluation, surgical removal, and diagnostic biopsy of tumors in cattle, horses, goats, sheep, and pigs. Our goal is to diagnose conditions accurately and treat them early, preserving both the animal’s health and productivity.

Why Tumor Evaluation Matters

Not all growths are cancerous, but all should be evaluated. Some common causes of masses in large animals include:

  • Benign tumors, such as fibromas or lipomas
  • Abscesses or walled-off infections
  • Warts or papillomas, especially in young animals
  • Squamous cell carcinoma (common around the eyes in cattle and horses)
  • Melanomas, particularly in gray horses
  • Lymph node enlargement due to systemic illness or infection
  • Soft tissue sarcomas or other malignant growths

A proper diagnosis is essential to determine whether treatment is needed and to prevent progression or complications.

Signs You Should Have a Mass Checked

  • A new or fast-growing lump
  • A mass that’s bleeding, ulcerated, or draining
  • Lameness or irritation caused by a growth
  • Weight loss or reduced appetite
  • Eye, ear, or mouth masses
  • A growth in a sensitive or hard-to-monitor area

If a mass is changing in size, texture, or appearance—or is bothering the animal—it’s time to have it evaluated.

What We Do

1. Examination & History

We start with a physical exam to assess the mass’s size, location, and consistency. We may recommend further testing if systemic disease is suspected.

2. Biopsy or Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA)

  • FNA: A small needle is used to collect cells from the mass for microscopic examination.
  • Incisional biopsy: A small piece of the mass is removed for analysis.
  • Excisional biopsy: The entire mass is surgically removed and submitted for pathology.

3. Surgical Removal If the mass is accessible and removal is indicated, we perform surgery using sedation or general anesthesia depending on species, size, and location. We aim to remove the mass with clean margins to reduce the risk of recurrence.

4. Histopathology The tissue is submitted to a diagnostic lab to determine if the growth is benign or malignant and whether further treatment is necessary.

Aftercare and Follow-Up

  • Wound care instructions (including bandaging or protection if needed)
  • Pain management and antibiotics when appropriate
  • Activity restriction depending on the surgical site
  • Recheck appointment to monitor healing and discuss lab results

We’ll work with you to ensure proper healing and adjust your animal’s care plan based on the biopsy report.

Why Choose Veterinary Removal Over Waiting or DIY Options

Attempting to drain or cut out a mass without proper diagnosis and sterile technique can lead to:

  • Incomplete removal and regrowth
  • Severe infection or hemorrhage
  • Misdiagnosis of a potentially serious condition
  • Delayed treatment that affects long-term outcome

Professional veterinary care ensures a safe procedure and an accurate diagnosis—both critical to your animal’s well-being.

Have You Noticed a Lump or Growth?

If your horse, cow, goat, sheep, or pig has a suspicious mass, don’t wait. Please call us at (337) 893-8522 to schedule an exam. We’re here to evaluate, treat, and help you make informed decisions with confidence.