Inflammation and enlargement of the lymph nodes is a common finding in companion animals. Infection is a common cause of lymph node enlargement. Cancer is also a common reason for lymph node enlargement. Below are the names and locations of the more common feline lymph nodes.
Submandibular — just below the mandible (lower jaw)
Retropharyngeal — in the back of the throat
Cervical — in the neck, along the trachea
Axillary — in the armpit
Sternal — inside the chest along the sternum (breastbone)
Tracheobronchial — associated with the bronchi (airways) in the lungs
Sublumbar — above the colon, just below the spine
Inguinal — in the groin area
Popliteal — along the back of the thigh
Epigastric — adjacent to the stomach
Mesenteric — in the abdomen, associated with the intestines
