Small lump

Question
Yesterday I noticed a small roundish lump on my piggy's back.  It's about the size of a pea, and right in the center of his back.  It doesn't seem to bother him, but it worried me.  He's 6 now and lives in a cage with his friend the bunny.  Other than the bump he seems completely normal. Thanks so much, Misty

Answer
Hi Misty,

    Two types of lumps that occur in guinea pigs are cysts and abscesses.  Abscesses generally occur in the neck and jawline-area, and so I believe that your guinea pig has developed a sebaceaus cysts, which generally occurs ont the back.

    This type of cyst is the result of dead tissue that will only become problematic and uncomfortable when it grows so large that it interrupts the normal flow of fluids.  Cysts can be easily removed by a veterinarian who is experienced in the area of guinea pigs.  Failure to do so may cause infection.

    Thank you for your question, I hope I have been of some help to you.  If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask.  Good luck with your guinea pig (=

                                                - Nicole