tumor or abscess on my syrian hamster

Question
hi lauren, my name is malaika newman. i am concerned anout my two year
old syrian hamster because it looks like he has a tumor on his inner bottom
lip. its external, and it has increased in size very rapidly. i just want to know if
it is a tumor or an abscess, and if there is anything that i can do to help him.
thank you!

Answer
He probably needs to see a vet, especially since it is increasing in size so quickly.  If it is an abscess, a vet can drain it.  A tumor will most likely have to be surgically removed.  Because it is around his mouth, it will eventually interfere with his eating and drinking.  Starvation is a slow and painful death.  Know that there is a chance that a vet will recommend that he be euthanized if it turns out to be a malignant (cancerous) tumor.  On the other hand, it could be benign and just need to be removed.

Let me know if there's anything else I can help with or if you have any other questions.  I hope for the best!

~Lauren