Surgical Cost

Question
I have a family rabbit that has a growing lump near the front right shoulder blade.  Other than having an uncomfortable appearance, the rabbit seems not to care.  I plan to look at different vets this week to have it removed, so my question is, what would be a reasonable price for this procedure?

Thanks,
Richard

Answer
Dear Richard,

The cost of the surgery will depend on so many variables that I can't even begin to guess.  Different vets charge different amounts, and different areas of the country have *very* different rates for veterinary services.

Also, it might not be wise to automatically assume the lump needs to be removed.  Is it firmly attached to underlying tissues?  If so, it could be an aggressive form of cancer known as a sarcoma, and removal of the lump may not be possible.  Only the attending vet can tell for sure.

If the lump moves freely with the skin, it could be an abcess (which should be surgically removed as if it were a tumor) or something benign that might not even need removal.

In any case, you should be sure to find a good vet who is experienced with rabbit surgeries, in case it is necessary for the bun to go under.  You can find one here:

www.rabbit.org/vets

I hope this helps, and that all turns out well for the bunny.

Dana