lump in Patches

Question
We have had our gp since Mar.2006.  She is pregnant.  I discovered a lump in her throat the size of a large gumball.  We pet her everyday, but just now recognized it being there 2 days ago.  We don't know how it got there, except maybe from the male that we breeded her with.  He was controlling with the food when they were in the cage together.  He would try to bite us if we were to pet him.  He did kill another g.pig in a cage that he shared with.  He was just borrowed for breeding purposes.  Could he have bitten mine or is it something like a cyst?  Do I need immediate vet attention? She is eating, drinking, and playing as normal.  How will this effect her when the babies are born?

Answer
Hello Leah,

She should see a vet. Because she is pregnant it is best not to attempt to treat anything your self because of possible risks to mom and babies from the treatment or an illness that has been allowed to develop for too long. Lumps in the throat area are usually abscesses. Another common possiblity is Cervical Lymphadenitis (swollen lymph nodes in the neck). With a vet's care, depending on the illness and the treatment, the babies will likely be ok  but the vet should let you know the risks before he does anything. Good luck!

-kkat
http://www.geocities.com/abyssinianguineapigs