Just noticed this on my 11-year-old cat and I'm a bit concerned.

He's an indoor-only cat, lives with me in an apartment, and there are no other animals in the home. I don't know exactly how long this bump has been there, but I only noticed it today.

It's a raised red/purple bump right next to his left ear. Photos attached.

One reason I'm concerned is that he had a somewhat similar issue back in February, although it was in a completely different location (above his right hind leg). The vet told me it was a cyst related to a sebaceous or sweat gland. My understanding was that a hair follicle or pore had become blocked or abnormal, leading to a growth that became problematic once it ruptured. It was treated with a topical antibiotic cream and eventually resolved.

This new bump seems different, though. It's darker in color and appears larger than the previous one.

For those with experience, does this look like it could be the same type of thing, or does it seem more consistent with something else?

I'm not expecting a diagnosis from photos alone, just wondering if anyone has seen something similar in their own cat and what it ended up being.

Thanks.

Additional information:

\- Poster age: 25

\- Country: UK

\- Vet accessible: Yes

\- Contacted vet already: No

\- Cat age: 11 years old

\- Sex/neuter status: Male, neutered

\- Indoor-only cat

\- No other pets in the household

\- Financial situation: I can afford veterinary care if necessary

11-year-old indoor male cat developed a red bump next to his ear. Any idea what this could be? (Photos attached)