Sporotrichosis is a mycosis caused by a saprophytic dimorphic fungus named Sporothrix schenckii. Infections occur following traumatic inoculation of fungus from plants and infected cat bites and scratches. We report a case of a farmer who presented with a solitary subcutaneous nodule initially diagnosed as a soft tissue tumour. A history of agricultural activity and feline contact should draw the clinician's attention to sporotrichosis, as the diagnosis can be easily missed in atypical cases. The diagnosis, microbiology and management of the case are discussed.