My rat has been with us for a few years now and I am very fond of him. Just yesterday I was patting him and stroking him, when I noticed a large-ish lump on the back of its head. I am worried that it could be a tumor or something. What do you think about this? What can I do?
I am sorry to say that you are probably right. I have had quite a few pet rats over the years, and I have to say that most of them died of tumours on various parts of their bodies. Rats seem extremely susceptible to this kind of thing. You should probably have him put to sleep, if he seems to be in lots of pain.
Hello Jone328,
I've had pet rats for years. I see that your post is from a while ago and I'm wondering what came of him? Out of the many rats I've had only one grow a tumor, under her neck on the right side. I was young then and couldn't afford a vet so I waited it out and hoped for the best. To our luck, her tumor completely vanished in a short time, it never really got that big. So there is hope! (I think there may be some over the counter meds, but I don't remember....) I would say the best thing you could do is take your wee one to the vet and most things can be cured or treated, I would never get a rat put down before I knew there was no other option. As for all my other rats, they've been healthy and died of old age. I currently have four females. I hope the best for you and your pet rat!