Ratty lump

[andrewlee]

My partner's daughter has a 2 year old rat (a pet, not vermin!)

It recently developed a lump on its tum, which can be moved around, and the rat seems untroubled by it. Any thoughts?

[WendyS]

Could possibly be a benign cyst of some kind. If it appears to get bigger it's advisable to check with a vet.

Am always delighted to hear of children having pet rats and can't understand why some people cringe at the idea. They're delightful creatures and very intelligent.

[Stinkerbell]

is the lump easily pushed in?

if so it could possibly be a hernia but shouldnt cause too many problems

[Noweia]

As Stinkerbell asked, is the lump firm or can it be slughtly 'squished'?

[andrewlee]

The lump has now disappeared, but the skin has broken, and it is now smelly, according to Cassie (didn't inspect too closely myself..) All sorts of speculation about a burst cyst, parasites, etc. She's taking it to the vet tomorrow, so I'll let you know. Thanks

[andrewlee]

Ratty update:- everything seems ok now! The "wound" was dusted with antibiotic powder, and it healed up a treat, and the lump is gone. Looks like it was a cyst which has drained itself.