Is skin gland carcinoma contagious to other pets?

Skin gland carcinoma is a tumour condition and is not contagious to other pets. If the lesion is open or infected, keep pets separated and consult your vet.

How does the vet confirm whether a lump is a tumour?

The typical process involves physical palpation, imaging (such as X-rays), and fine-needle aspiration or biopsy sent for histopathology — the definitive diagnosis is based on the pathology report.

How long after surgical excision does my pet need follow-up monitoring?

A follow-up visit to check the wound is usually scheduled within a few weeks after surgery. Thereafter, imaging and check-ups are arranged every one to three months — or longer intervals — based on the pathology findings and your vet's advice.

If my pet's lump is not bleeding, how long can I observe it before seeing a vet?

If the mass is stable and not painful, scheduling a clinic evaluation within a few days is reasonable. If it grows larger, breaks open, or affects appetite, seek veterinary care promptly.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Skin Gland Carcinoma in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Biopsy & Treatment [2025]

Skin gland carcinoma is a malignant skin tumour. Early surgical removal generally carries a good prognosis.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: WSAVA, AVMA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek immediate veterinary care (emergency)

•The wound is bleeding heavily and cannot be stopped within a short time
•The lump has grown noticeably and rapidly within a short period (a few days)
•Significant overall weakness or a sudden sharp drop in appetite

Schedule a clinic visit soon (within 24–72 hours)

•The lump repeatedly breaks open or bleeds slowly over time
•Your pet continuously and frequently scratches or licks the affected area
•A hard lump or obvious swelling is felt near the body

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

Skin gland carcinoma commonly presents as a localised hard lump or recurring ulceration and bleeding, which may affect coat appearance and behaviour.

A firm lump or clearly visible mass on the skin, possibly with poorly defined borders
Ulceration, broken skin, or recurring minor to heavy bleeding on the surface of the mass
Pet persistently scratches or repeatedly licks and bites the affected area
Palpable swollen tissue nearby, or discomfort when the area is touched
Localised hair loss, skin colour change, or obvious redness and itching

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Heavy bleeding from the wound that cannot be controlled
⚠️ The mass grows noticeably and rapidly within a short period (a few days)
⚠️ Marked overall weakness or a sharp drop in appetite

02What should I watch for at home, and when is it an emergency?

Keeping a home record of the lesion's appearance and your pet's overall condition helps the vet assess quickly and plan the right tests.

Take close-up and full-body photos with your phone from multiple angles, including something for scale
Note when you first noticed the mass, its size, and how quickly it has changed
Record bleeding frequency and approximate amount each day (light oozing vs. bright-red flow)
Monitor appetite, water intake, and bowel habits for any obvious changes
Track weight and activity level over time to give the vet a comparison baseline
Note any recent changes in diet, medications, or environment that could be relevant

03How does the vet make a diagnosis? Common diagnostic steps

At the clinic the vet will perform a full physical exam and arrange imaging and histological tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Physical examination

palpation of the mass, bilateral skin comparison, and lymph node assessment

X-rays

evaluate the chest or skeleton for possible metastasis or concurrent lesions

Tissue biopsy (histopathology) to confirm tumour type and grade

Complete blood count and biochemistry panel

assess organ function and surgical fitness

Urinalysis

rule out metabolic or infectious issues and support overall evaluation

Referral to a hospital with pathology or oncology expertise is recommended for further workup

04What treatment and aftercare are needed? Medications, diet adjustments & home care

Treatment may include surgical excision, local or systemic therapy, and requires long-term follow-up and wound care.

Surgical excision is usually the first choice; the margin depends on tumour location and size
Whether chemotherapy or local therapy is needed will be assessed by a specialist based on the pathology report
Post-operative pain management and wound care are provided, with attention to infection prevention
Nutritional support aids post-surgical recovery and wound healing
Schedule regular follow-up visits with imaging or pathology to monitor for possible recurrence or metastasis
Consult an oncology specialist to discuss an individualised treatment and monitoring plan

05What should I prepare before the vet visit? Key information to help identify the cause

Bring several recent, clear close-up and full-body photos of the lesion

Write down the onset date, how symptoms have changed, and any steps already taken

Record how often scratching or bleeding occurs and the approximate amount each time

List any recent changes in food, medications, or environment

Bring current medications, supplements, and any previous test reports if available

Use a secure carrier and book ahead at a specialist or pathology-capable clinic

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.

Related Symptoms (You May Also Be Looking For)

Hemorrhage

Severe bleeding

Lameness

Limping

Ulcer

Open sore