A Skin Lump With a Small Opening on Your Cat

A swelling with a small opening in your cat’s skin needs examination. In some regions it may contain a Cuterebra botfly larva, often called a warble, but an opening can have other causes. Do not squeeze the lump, probe it or try to pull something out.

VCA’s Cuterebra overview explains that cats can accidentally encounter these larvae around rodent or rabbit habitats. A larva beneath the skin may create an opening used for breathing. The visible pore is a reason to arrange care, not an invitation to attempt removal.

Avoid turning a small wound into a larger one

The Merck Veterinary Manual warns that squeezing can rupture the larva and worsen inflammation or infection. Keep fingers, tweezers and grooming tools away from the opening. Do not put a home remedy into it to force something to emerge.

Contact the clinic and describe the location, when the lump appeared, any discharge and whether the cat has been hunting. If there is a visible object, describe what you can see without manipulating it. A clear photo can help the team prepare if taking it does not delay care.

If breathing becomes difficult, or new seizures, loss of balance or marked illness occur, seek emergency veterinary help. A skin swelling does not explain away serious changes elsewhere.

Let the examination establish the next step

Treatment depends on what is present and the condition of the surrounding tissues. Ask whether removal, wound cleaning or other care is needed and how discomfort will be managed.

Do not assume an empty-looking opening means the problem is over. VCA notes that infection may remain after a larva has left. A wound that continues to drain or fails to heal still needs reassessment.

Before leaving, ask what should cover the site, whether licking needs preventing and which products are appropriate. Follow the specific directions rather than applying a general skin-care routine.

Reduce repeat exposure without promising prevention

Discuss your cat’s access to rodent habitats and hunting opportunities with the team. Safe indoor activities may help replace some outdoor hunting; our cat play guide offers ideas for supervised play.

After treatment, record the wound’s appearance and the cat’s comfort as directed. Do not repeatedly open or press the site to check progress. The goal is a properly assessed and healing wound, with a plan for any recurrence—not a successful home extraction.

Written by PARTNER Editorial Team for general education. Contact your veterinary team for advice about your pet’s individual health and feeding needs.