Tumor Symptoms

Question
My friend recently put her 2 year old pet rat down.  I know it's too late for him, but I can't help thinking now, that he may have just had an ear infection.  He seemed so sick and I just wanted your opinion, in case we run into it ever again.  About a week ago, he suddenly staggered down his stairs and seemed to lose balance.  He had serious red discharge from his eyes and nose.  His balance became worse overnight, to the point that he was curled up on one side and couldn't seem to eat, even though he tried.  He just lied on the food I gave him and mouthed it and even seemd as if he'd gone blind.  I'm wondering if, to you, this sounds more like a stroke or a tumor, of if it may have been just a serious ear infection.  The stupid vet didn't even check him out, just put him down.  Well, thank you for your opinion.  I pet sit, so I'd like to know what I'm seeing in the future!

Answer
Hi Tracy

Dont tell your friend, but chances he had an ear infection are at least 75%. This little rat could have been saved, or at least given a chance!
Obvioosl it was a vet that had no idea what to do or he would have tried something rather than just destroy an animal that may have had a chance.   Strokes, although they do happen, they are not that common, and tumors show signs gradually.   Shame on the vet for not trying antibiotics and steroids first.  My rat had meningitis in January and we gave him aggressive antibiotics. He couldn't walk and would roll and circle when he tried to walk. He would roll instead of walk! He didn't move, either,wouldn't eat or anything. I fed him baby food and he stayed at the clinic for 10 days and here he is now, just turned 2 on the 12th of October and this happened in January.