Swollen, hard nipple in 13 year old cat

I am taking her to the vet on Wednesday to get this checked out, but I am starting to panic a little.  Is there anything else this might be aside from cancer? I tend to jump to the worst possible scenario. BTW I have been unable to actually look at it (she's very overweight - on a diet), and she hates to be held. The swelling is not really bad; it's mostly the hardness that I notice.

Thank you.

I wish I could help you with this, but I've no experience with this particular situation.  Maybe someone will come along with some help soon.

Thank you for your reply. I have read elsewhere this could be a blocked duct, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed that this is not something more serious. I'm glad I have that vet appointment for her coming up in just a couple of days.

I have NOT heard of anyone whose cats had mammary cancer indicating it started with a swollen, hard nipple, so that could be in your favor

Keep us posted.

Thank you so much! I will definitely post as soon as I get my answer.

Well, Emily pitched a fit when we got to the vet. I have to give her something to calm her down before the doctor can examine her. That will be on Saturday.

Well that's a bummer.  I hope you had a serious conversation with her about her behavior.    Here's hoping it's a go on Saturday!

Yes, we had a talk about it! Emily is quite the drama queen. She drew blood from the vet. Sigh. I hope this medication works & I can get it in her! It's gabapentin BTW (pretty sure that's the name).

I finally got Emily out to the vet and I am so very thankful it was just a cyst! Thanks all for your support.

Great!  Did he remove it?  What's the plan now?

Yep; it's gone! Kind of embarrassing that it was what amounted to a zit, but I'd rather be safe than sorry. Thanks for your concern!