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Crusty cat nipple.

Species: Cat
Breed: long haired looks li
Age: 5-8 years
My 8 year old male cats nipple was hard and crusty. I pulled it and it came out and attached was a white thing sort of like a pimple. It left a small hole but no liquids came out, no bleeding, no redness its not swollen or anything is this ok??? He also Had another nipple do that about 8 months ago


Online vet, Dr. Marie

Dr. Marie replied:

Sorry to hear that Hobo may be having problems.

This is a tough one to answer without seeing Hobo's skin but I can give you my thoughts.

My first thought is that it is unlikely to be anything serious. I have seen some cats that have crusty lesions around or on their nipple. Sometimes if you pick at it or pull it there is a white residue that comes out. I personally think it is dead skin and cells that collect in mammary ducts but I don't know for sure what it is.

It is also possible that this is a small wound that is infected. However, if he did this previously and there is no redness at all this is pretty unlikely.

There is a parasite called a cuterebra which can live under the skin and eventually surfaces and can be pulled out. However, this is usually quite large when it comes out and looks like a big grub, so I don't think this is what you are describing.

In my opinion, as long as it is not bothersome and there is no recurrence it is likely nothing to worry about. The next time you have your vet examine him, mention this and they can have a look at his nipples. And, if he has this problem again but there is inflammation or a large bump then a vet visit is a good idea.

Hope all is well!

Dr. Marie.


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Disclaimer: Although Dr. Marie is a qualified veterinarian, the information found on this site is not meant to replace the advice of your own veterinarian. AskAVetQuestion.com and Dr. Marie do not accept any responsibility for any loss, damage, injury, death, or disease which may arise from reliance on information contained on this site. Do not use information found on this site for diagnosing or treating your pet. Anything you read here is for information only.

Customer reply:

After looking at him today he has several nipples that are hard and crusty like the one that pulled out is that normal for most of them to be that way? Thanks again for your time. RUTH


Online vet, Dr. Marie

Dr. Marie replied:

You're very welcome Ruth. This is a tough one for me to comment on without seeing Hobo. Is there any way you could take a picture of the area and send it to me? If you can get one you can email it to info@askavetquestion.com.

I won't be able to say 100% without seeing him in person but at least I can tell you whether it is worthwhile getting him checked out.



Customer reply:

yes I will do that probably around 4 p.m. a tomorrow and again thank you so much for all your help



Online vet, Dr. Marie

Dr. Marie replied:

You're welcome! Looking forward to your photo.



Online vet, Dr. Marie

Dr. Marie replied:

Thanks for the great photos Ruth!

It looks to me like this is unlikely to be anything to worry about. The "plug" that is in the first photo is likely a collection of dead skin cells that has formed a big clump. And the photos of the nipple look quite normal.

However, no online consult can take the place of an in person vet visit. So, if you are seeing any redness, swelling or you just think something is not right then I'd have your vet take a look.

Dr. Marie.



Customer reply:

I will have him checked out he just had a yearly checkup in July so I wasnt going to rush him back if not necessary. I really appreciate your time and Thanks again. Have a great holiday weekend. Ruth


Online vet, Dr. Marie

Dr. Marie replied:

You're very welcome Ruth! I'd love to hear what your vet says.

Dr. Marie.



Customer reply:

ok i will probably take him next week and i will let you know


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Dr. MarieDr. Marie is a veterinarian who practices in a busy animal hospital in Ottawa, Ontario. She created Ask A Vet Question as a resource for good, accurate veterinary advice online. Dr. Marie treats dogs, cats, hamsters, guinea pigs, and rats. She has been a vet since 1999.

Is an online vet visit just as good as a trip to your veterinarian? No! But, many times, asking an online veterinarian a question can help save you money. While Dr. Marie can't officially diagnose your pet or prescribe medications, she can often advise you on whether a vet visit is necessary. You can also ask Dr. Marie for a second opinion on your pet's condition.