Large lymph nodes in a cat.

Dr. Marie replied:

Thanks for an interesting question!

I don't know that I have ever seen a cat have enlarged lymph nodes for 2 years. I'm wondering if what we are perceiving as lymph nodes are actually salivary glands. These glands sit under the jaw right next to the submandibular lymph nodes and it is often easy to confuse the two. Some cats will have larger salivary glands than others and if this is the case there is a good chance that there is nothing to worry about.

However, if they are enlarged lymph nodes it is worthwhile to have your vet examine Miko. There is a condition called idiopathic lymphadenopathy where young cats can have enlarged lymph nodes for no known reason. However, this is usually only temporary and shouldn't last as long as two years.

Other reasons for enlarged lymph nodes include a virus such as Feline Leukemia virus, or an infection called Bartonella, or even a parasitic infection of something called toxoplasmosis.

It would be a great idea to have your vet examine Miko and do a fine needle aspirate of the lumps. If they are salivary glands they will know right away. Otherwise, they can send some slides of the cells extracted away to a pathologist and find out whether we need to be worried. It is also a good idea to have your vet do some general bloodwork including a test for feline leukemia.

Unfortunately there is no cure for feline leukemia. However, if Miko has had large lymph nodes for two years and has not been ill then I would be very surprised if this is feline leukemia.

I hope everything is ok!

Dr. Marie.

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Dr. Marie replied:

You're very welcome!

It's often really difficult to tell between lymph nodes and salivary glands. I even have difficulty doing it and I am feeling animals' lymph nodes 10-20 times per day, every day!

One other thought I had was to look at Miko's teeth and gums. Are her gums really red and inflamed? If so it is possible that she has something called stomatitis which causes chronic inflammation in the mouth and would cause her lymph nodes to be enlarged. Stomatitis is usually a treatable condition.

If she is bright and eating well then I wouldn't be too worried about rushing her in right away. It would be great if you were able to put away a little money here and there and then when you have enough have her checked out.

Hope all is well!

Dr. Marie

Dr. Marie replied:

Glad to be of help!