Lump near rabbits chin

Question
I have a four-year old mini rex buck. Just a couple hours ago, I discovered a lump near his chin. It's about the size of an M&M, somewhat flattened, smooth, firm, and moves with his skin. I could swear this wasn't even there yesterday, because I always pet his chin and face because he likes being rubbed there, but I could be wrong.

I'm taking him to the vet asap, but in the meanwhile I'm REALLY worried and upset. I'm afraid he's going to die.

What do you think it is?

Answer
Hi Rebekah.....My first thought when I hear of a lump near the chin is a mandibular (jaw) abscess.  This is usually caused by an impaction of the roots of the molars or an overgrowth of the molars resulting in "spurs".  The resulting infection results in a "walled off" infection.  This is a very challenging issue to treat.  Most vets will prefer surgery.  However, we have developed a non-invasive procedure that uses aggressive antibiotic treatment.  If your vet suspects an abscess after a physical exam, expect some x-rays to check for impactions and the involvement of the bone itself.  Abscess treatment can be long term.

It could also be a "warble"...the larvae of a bot fly.  This possibility would depend on where you live.  In very simple terms, this is a maggot.  A bot will appear as a quickly growing lump that usually has a crusty center.  If you look carefully, you will see the "gill" of the bot at the center of the lump as it extends to breathe.  Bots should be removed if possible....but by a skilled doctor.  If a bot's body is compromised inside the host, it can result in anaphylaxis.

A benign cyct is also a possibility.  If this is the case, the vet will most likely do a needle aspiration and check any fluid for bacteria or other signs of issues.  We see these cysts from time to time and most of them are nothing more than a nuisance...but if it's on the jaw, that could lead to some concerns that would need to be addressed.

And sometimes we have seen things virtually ground into the fur that requires clipping to remove.

Until you get to a vet...don't panic.  They can sense your worry.  Just monitor his food and water intake to make sure he is getting proper nutrition and hydration.