Lump in gawl area

Question
My daughter has a sweet guinea pig that is about 7 months old.  I just noticed that she has a large hard lump in her gawl area. What could this be? We're scared.

Answer
Hi Star,

I am hugely sorry for taking a so long to reply to you. I have had a number of increasingly problematic issues with my internet as well as being a "live-in nanny" to newborn twins so I have had great difficulty answering many, many questions. Apologies for any inconvenience caused.

I'm not a vet, so I can't say why your precious guinea has a lump. From experience and research I realise it could be an abscess, a gland problem or a tumor. Without being able to see her, and without professional veterinary knowledge and training, I'm afraid I am unable to tell you exactly why your piggie is sick.

Try not to worry, just concentrate on getting her to a vet. Many guinea pigs are successfully treated for abscesses, and it does take commitment from the carer to work with the piggie reliably until the problem clears up.

Also, while you are waiting to make the vet appointment, try looking at Guinea Lynx - www.guinealynx.info - for some ideas as to what the lump might be and what to expect.

Again, I am very sorry for the delay. I hope I haven't caused you concern or inconvenience through my internet problems. Good luck with your piggie, I hope she's okay.

Best Wishes,

- Laura
www.cavy-care.com