Yahoo Answers is shutting down on May 4th, 2021 (Eastern Time) and the Yahoo Answers website is now in read-only mode. There will be no changes to other Yahoo properties or services, or your Yahoo account. You can find more information about the Yahoo Answers shutdown and how to download your data on this help page.

Claire
Lv 4
Claire asked in PetsRodents · 10 years ago

Older rat with tumors, advice?

I have a rat who is over 2 years old. I rescued her and her friend from a humane society. She had tumor surgery a few months ago but over the past month or so she has grown three more one under her arm, one on her side, and one near her back leg. She walks a little funny now because the one on her side is somewhat large but she still jumps and gets around. I definitely cannot afford 3 more surgeries and that would probably be too hard on her since she is older. I am just looking for advice on what to do to make her more comfortable and when I should decide to put her down or just what to do. She is in a wire cage with ladders and ramps/hammocks but should I put her in a different cage? My only other cages are a long rabbit cage and a 15 gallon aquarium. If I separate her should I leave her friend who is healthy in the other cage? Just looking for some advice I only want the best for my little rattie.

3 Answers

Relevance
  • 10 years ago

    :( it's sad that the little thing is so ill, but you show good pet ownership by asking for help. I have a rat who is going on 2 years, she has a tumor on her back leg, it can't be removed because that would mean she wouldn't be able to go to the toilet. The vet told me that all I could do was make her comfortable and look after her well. Lately she has been bleeding near the tumor which is worrying. However, my vet did say that as long as she is happy thats all that matters.

    I would keep your rat in the same cage, it's something she is use to and it would probably stress her out to leave it. The advice I can offer you is to make note of if she is happy, watch her carefully each day to see if she if struggling or in any pain. Treat her how you used to, this will keep her feeling calm and happy.

    If the tumors get too big and you can't afford to remove them, I would suggest putting her down. It's a terrible thing to consider, let alone act on, but it would be the kindest thing to do if she begun to suffer. As long as she is a happy rat and doing okay despite the tumors then enjoy her and make sure the rest of her life is content and happy :)

    I wish the best for your little rat, x x x

    Source(s): Owner of 14.
  • Anonymous
    5 years ago

    Mammary tumors are very easy in older lady rats (18+ months), and regrettably they simply stay 2 to 3 years first of all. feels like your woman has had an prolonged existence, and euthanasia must be splendid for her.

  • Anonymous
    10 years ago

    I would leave her with her friends. Just make sure everything is down where she can reach it. Also, you might consider getting her some pain medication. Make sure to watch the tumors so they don't ulcerate. As long as she's getting around and not in pain and eating, I'd let her keep going.

    Source(s): Slave to 33 rats, 8 mice, 1 gerbil and 3 Syrian hamsters.
Still have questions? Get your answers by asking now.