Skin problem

[Julie]

I feed a male stray cat, who sometimes will let me pet him. I've noticed lumpy formations on his skin, that look like jelly beans. They are dark grey, shiny, and the approximate size of a jelly bean. Sometimes they fall off. My neighbour, who also feeds this cat, told me she'd seen them last year, in the fall and winter only (not when it gets warmer). Does anybody know what these lumps might be?

Thanks for any info.

[Traci]

I would strongly advise one of you get kitty to a vet for an exam. No one but the vet can determine what the lumps are. NO lump should ever go unattended. Since you seem to think they come and go, chances are they may be abcesses, but they could be more serious than that, only the vet can determine.

[Ron]

Bless you for feeding and caring for this kitty! It sounds to me like the kitty may have ticks. I have seen engorged ticks that meet your description. Traci is right, it would be best to have that kitty examined by a vet, I hope you can get him in soon, he needs help. Please post a follow-up and let us know what happens.

[FromBeyond138]

Thanks Julie for caring for this cat !! Please get him to the vet to treat these lumps & while he's there he might as well get neutered. Since he's a stray your vet will probably give you a good deal.

Maybe once the vet has checked him out he'd make a nice house cat ?