Does my rat have a Mammary Tumour?

Question

It looks like this only not as fat.

http://www.lbah.com/images/rats/Mammary%20Tumor/Lump.JPG

Answer 1

There's a chance it is a tumor and it might be an abscess.  If it occurred very quickly, then it might be an abscess.  They are usually squishier as well.  A vet will have to drain it and probably prescribe antibiotics.

If it is a tumor, and it is small, you might not have to remove it right now.  

Things to consider:

If it is small, it will be cheaper and easier for a vet to remove it now while it isn't too vascular (connected to the blood system).

Tumors will only continue to get larger.  The tumor will start to hinder her movement and suck the nutrients from her.  

Even if removed now, there's a chance it will just come back.  Rats can live pretty decent lives with a tumor.  When I took my rat to the vet he said that rats live cushy lives and can get around okay on three legs if necessary (I thought this sounded horrifying and got it removed ASAP)

You might want to call around to different vets to find one that is familiar with this procedure and to get a estimate on cost.  To have mine removed was $200+ and it was small.

After the surgery, you should have a small cage you can keep her in for a few days.  Something she can't climb all over.  Try to do it on a Friday afternoon or weekend so you can keep an eye on her to make sure she doesn't rip her stitches out.  Keep it covered during the day to keep her calm and include any items that she likes, hammocks, sleep spots, etc.

You shouldn't get a collar for her unless she will absolutely will not leave it alone.  It hinders their normal activities and can depress them.  Another option is to cut some tights to fit around her or use a teddy bear/small doll shirt to keep her from biting it.  Mine made hers bleed the first day and it wasn't a big deal.  She did better once the other rat was with her.

If she has a cagemate, your vet will probably say to keep them apart, but if your other rat(s) are not big groomers, you should put them together.  Rats will heal faster and feel better having their buddies around.

Feed her normally before and after the surgery.  Just try to keep her from moving around too much and stretching the wound site.

Rats heal very quickly, after a week she should be pretty good.  It will take awhile for her fur to grow back though.

Hope that helps and good luck!

Answer 2

it could be a tumor but then it could also be a cist. Don't worry if you are taking it to the vet then they will tell you what to do to handle it with care and how to care for it after surgery etc....