Swollen cheek Ect.

Question
Heyy Im Mikayla,
So sorry to bother you, My rat has a swollen cheeck on one side i have been freaking out about it cause i thought it may have been a tumor :( and i always think the worst,
Her mouth is swollen alot on one side with some blood :S ? i think it may be her tooth and the abcess ?? i figured is open :( im very freaked out about this and im going to the vet tomorrow.. but wilol she live stupid question.. but i love her alot :) she seems a bit lurthargic as well .. but she eats and drinks but only stuff i make soft ..

Please help me THANKYOU

Answer
At best this is a tooth abscess as you suspect. At worse, it could be a tumor, but the vet can confirm what it is when you take her in tomorrow.

The usual procedure for a tooth abscess is as it is with a dog or cat only on a smaller scale.
http://ratguide.com/health/figures/abscess_figure_6.php (warning graphic images) You will be required to give her antibiotics for a period of time.

"Will she live?" is not a stupid question, it is a question that is asked by all caring pet keepers. If it is an abscess, and with proper treatment, she can live.

Her lethargy is a combination of pain and fever. Both symptoms will be relieved with the treatment above. Keep feeding the soft foods until she is feeling better.

As I cannot talk about holistic support here you may wish to join my group Holistarat where you can obtain ongoing information and support from others.

Sandra Beasley and the SPAZ Rats
My Website:  http://spazrats.tripod.com
My Forums:   http://groups.yahoo.com/group/holistarat
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