What to do about rat tumor, about to go on a trip?

Question

I have a rat that I adopted in May from our local animal shelter (along with a friend we introduced to her). They said she was 1.5 years old. Recently, like a week or so ago, I noticed she had a tumor on her belly. I was worried, but was busy at the time and never got around to scheduling an appointment. The tumor is now pretty big, almost touching the ground. She still doesn't seem bothered by it, though she is a little slower than before. I am about to go on a trip (leaving on Sunday) so there is still time to schedule a surgery perhaps. However I am still not sure what to do. She could be 2 years old by now (since her birth date isn't exact) and what if She doesn't live very long after getting the surgery? since she is old, she could die of cancer or another old age disease not far from now. She is fairly healthy otherwise, but since she is older is it a good idea? Also, last time I had a vet perform a tumor surgery on my rat it cost 200 dollars and I don't know if I can afford it now (I am only 15 and have to pay for it myself). A friend suggested getting the surgery and then volunteering at the clinic to lower the cost, but do you think that would work? I knew that the vet there was experienced with rats, but I am now wondering if there is a vet that is good with rats but has lower prices? I don't know if there is time to talk to a vet and know they are good with rats as well as get surgery before we leave on our trip. I know it is all my fault that I left this off, and I hate myself for it, but now I need to figure it out because I will not leave my rat when she has a tumor and I know she will be in a horrible state when we get back. Does anyone have suggestions of what I should do? Please try to answer all the questions and thanks in advance for helpful, caring answers!

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

even though shes getting old, i think the surgery is worth it. the tumor will just become more and more uncomfortable and she will start having problems getting around. even if she does end up dying soon, at least shell be more comfortable, right? plus you said shes still healthy otherwise... you never know, she could have a whole other year in her!
i dont think that the fact shes getting a little old will effect the surgery. she should come out just fine.
i think asking to work off some pay is a great idea! you never know what the vet will say, but if theyll let you work off some of it, go for it! you could also ask friends and family for a loan, just say youll pay them back when you get the money but you really need it right now.
the vet thats more experienced shouldnt charge much difference than what you had done before. it also depends on the tumors size and location. size may make a difference to the surgen, it may not. the fact that theyre more experienced, however, shouldnt effect anything. 
todays only tuesday, you have tons of time. get in contact with the vet asap and ask about their experience and availability. you can even ask for the phone numbers of their past patients to see what their thoughts on the vet are.
i say, get her to the vet asap. it may be costly, and she may be old, but in the end, shell feel much better.
good luck!

? · Answer

Iv had the same thing its common and not oftern cancer. It cost me Â£110 to get it removed and took a wile to save up for but he came out alright but he did end up getting 2 more about 8 months later and his back legs went. the vet said it would be unsafe to operate again but he was old and had a good life so he was put down. do what you think is right. Let you pet live with it and posibly be uncomfortable or giving your rat a comfortable life by getting it remove but risking further problems and maby loss problems and maby loss

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What to do about rat tumor, about to go on a trip?

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