Rat with Malignant Tumor

Question
Hello,

I have a pet rat that is around 3 years old. She developed a mammary tumor under her right armpit at the end of July. When I took her into the vet he said that it was malignant and there was probably a very good chance that if removed it would just come back. Also due to her age, the vet said that the small success rate of the surgery is not worth putting her through it. Since late July the tumor has grown from the size of a small peach pit to the size of a small avocado, and another tumor under her other arm pit is clearly growing by the day. Other then the tumors hindering her ability to walk/climb around she seemed fine until yesterday. I was about to feed her when i noticed she was climbing up her ramp and slipped getting her little foot stuck. She began squealing and crying and I rushed over and got it out before any superficial damage was done. When I picked her up to comfort her I noticed a thick bloody discharge coming from an opening in her lower abdomen (not sure if it was her vagina or urethra) It began oozing out when she got stuck, but it was not a result of her getting her foot trapped as I had noticed a bit of blood stains on her bedding that looked dried up from before. My question is when should I take her to be humanly euthanized. I don't want to make a pre mature decision, but I also dont want her to suffer either. She still looks to have life in her eyes and is still eating. She also does not appear to be in much pain but then again since animals hide their pain its difficult to gauge. I know ultimatly it is my decision and only I can make it, but I wanted to hear from someone who knew more about rats then I do. I want to do what is best for her and not be selfish but its so hard. Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!!

Thanks,
Cristy


Answer
Usually tumors are not cancerous when dealing with estrogen fueled mammary tumors, but they do tend to grow back since the levels of estrogen remain high after estrus cycles end.  

I would let her go longer until she is really not eating and thriving. Rats are tough and would rather fight to live than give up.. I would rather let her give up the fight unless she is suffering and you will know she is not feeling well once she stops showing interest in every day life.  She is a grand lady at 3, you did good with her!