cyst-like object

Question
My rabbit seems to have developed a cyst-like object near the under part of her shoulder blade/chest area.  It's perfectly round and about the size of a peanut. What is your opinion about this and should I be concerned?

Answer
Dear Lisa,

Does the lump move freely under her skin, or is it firmly attached to underlying tissues?  If it's firmly attached, it is possible that it's a tumor that must be examined and probably completely *excised* by a good rabbit vet.  This should be done immediately, since cancers of this type (usually sarcomas) can be extremely aggressive.  The sooner they are removed (with good margins around the tumor), the better the chances for full recovery.  

If the lump does move freely with the skin, it's less likely to be cancer.  It could be something as benign as a fibroma (small, fibrous body) or something a little more noteworthy, such as an abscess.  An abscess can be removed by a good rabbit vet, and it's better to completely excise the abscess, capsule and all, than to lance and drain it, since rabbit pus is extremely thick and does not flush or drain well.

Bottom line:  It's time for a trip to a good rabbit vet to see whether this is something that needs treatment.  You can find a good bunny vet here:

www.rabbit.org/vets

I hope this helps.  Please write back if you have any other questions.

Dana