Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped glands that function as part of a cat’s immune system. These structures are distributed throughout the body, acting as checkpoints within the lymphatic network. Knowing where these nodes are located and what they feel like helps owners monitor their pet’s health.
The Role of Lymph Nodes in Feline Health
The lymphatic system is a complex network of vessels that transports lymph throughout the body. Lymph nodes act as filters along this network, designed to trap and neutralize foreign substances before they can spread. This filtration process is a primary defense mechanism against illness.
Lymph nodes store and activate immune cells, specifically lymphocytes. When a cat encounters a pathogen, the nodes closest to the infection produce and mobilize these white blood cells. This increased activity causes the nodes to swell, signaling that the body is fighting a threat. The system also helps maintain fluid balance by collecting excess fluid from tissues and returning it to the bloodstream.
Key Palpable Locations
A cat has hundreds of lymph nodes, but only a few are close enough to the skin’s surface to be easily felt, or palpated. The most accessible nodes are found in three main areas: under the jaw, in front of the shoulder, and behind the knee. Checking these spots regularly helps owners detect changes early.
The submandibular nodes are beneath the jawbone, near where the jaw meets the neck. To check, cup the chin and use fingertips to feel for small, paired structures on either side. These nodes often enlarge due to dental issues or upper respiratory infections.
The prescapular nodes are situated just in front of the shoulder blade. Locate them by running fingers along the front of the shoulder joint, feeling for a small, mobile structure. These nodes filter lymph from the head, neck, and front limbs.
The popliteal nodes are found on the back of the hind legs, behind the knee joint. To find them, grasp the back of the leg above the hock and feel for a small, firm structure nestled between the muscles. These nodes monitor the lower hind limbs for signs of infection or inflammation.
What Normal and Swollen Nodes Feel Like
A healthy lymph node is typically small, about the size of a pea or smaller, and can be difficult to locate. Normal nodes should feel soft and smooth to the touch, and they are usually mobile, meaning they can be gently moved beneath the skin. Often, only the submandibular and popliteal nodes are consistently palpable in a healthy cat.
When a lymph node is swollen (lymphadenopathy), the change in size and texture is noticeable. An enlarged node may feel firm and round, potentially growing to the size of a marble or larger. Swollen nodes may also feel less mobile or fixed in place, and they can sometimes be warm or painful. This enlargement indicates an increased concentration of immune cells fighting an issue in the region the node drains.
When to Consult a Veterinarian
Noticing an enlarged lymph node warrants a professional examination, as it signals an underlying health issue. If a node is noticeably swollen, firm, or rapidly increasing in size, it should be evaluated by a veterinarian. Persistent swelling that lasts for more than a few days is also a cause for concern.
Owners should seek veterinary attention if the swelling is accompanied by other signs of illness. These symptoms can include lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, or visible pain when the area is touched. Only a veterinarian can perform necessary diagnostic tests, such as a fine needle aspirate, to determine the cause of the swelling and recommend appropriate treatment.