RUSSIAN HAMSTER - HAS BUMP

Question
My daughter has a male russian hamster.  Its very small, never bites.  we've had it for about three months.  I noticed on his right side he has a bump?  His fur is missing on this spot it's pinkish almost looks like its chapped?  What could cause this?  Anything we can do, besides take him to the vet?  I really don't have too much money, so for me to spend hundreds of dollars for a $10 hamster is out of the picture.  Any help would be appreciated, or suggestions?...

Answer
Hi Rich,

Your hamster may have either an abscess or a tumor.  If it is an abscess, you may be able to see a bite or scratch mark.  The abscess will soon burst and become infected, which can be fatal.  So, you should take your hamster to the vet.  But, it certainly shouldn't cost much.  All the vet would have to do is drain the abscess and give the hamster antibiotics.  One of my hamsters had this problem, and the vet bill was under $20.

Or, he may have a tumor.  External tumors can often be operated on.  (I'm not sure how much that would cost, however.)

If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.

Kelly