winter white hamster

Question
hello
I have a winter white hamster who is a 2yr old female and she has developed a larger abscess looking growth on her left buccal area. I have no idea how this happened but she has lost a lot of weight and I am very scared I could lose her? I know I have to take her to the vet, but I there anything I can try before I have to pay a hugh vet bill? I have tried her on soft foods and have made sure that she is drinking and moving regularly. I also had my aunt order manuka honey UMF 16+ for her(something someone said to try for this) so while I wait another day, do you have any suggestions?
Thanks for your time and advise
Tae
11yrs old

Answer
Hi Tae

Thanks for your question.

Hamsters are very prone to getting tumours around this age so this would be the first thing I would think of. At this age surgery is very dangerous and not many vets would risk it. Also if this tumor is internal rather than superficial it is hard to remove.

Some tumours grow quickly and others much slower. The danger is that it could rupture and infect or it grows so large it puts pressure on other parts of the body. Keep a close watch on it to see if it changes at all.

The important thing is that she as quality of life and isn't suffering - if she show signs of pain or ill health then she must see a vet who would probably suggest euthanasia.

However some lumps are abscesses which can be drained.  It is hard to know whether or not to take her to a vet - if this is an abscess then it may well be treatable if it is drained and she is given antibiotics. The important thing if you see a vet is that they specialise in small animals. Check this first and also find out what they charge as most will offer a reduced fee for a hamster. It is best to establish this before you go.

I hope this helps you

Regards
Sheila