3237. A 29-month-old hamster has a swollen face and two infected tumours

A 29-month-old Syrian hamster has a swollen left cheek and two infected tumours

HOOK

August 13, 2018.
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Hi,
Is this Dr Sing?
My 2-year-5-month-old Syrian hamster has a swollen right cheek. He is very old already. I am worried that the swelling may burst. Is there anything I can do to treat the swelling?  Two images were WA.

Dr Sing phoned and advised veterinary examination, as the cheek swelling may be an abscess.


DURING CONSULTATION (DAY 1)

Very old and emaciated. Still stores seeds in cheek pouch and ate. Passed stools.

Very high risk for anaesthesia. Owner gave consent as the right facial swelling was growing bigger. 12 hours post op, passed away

BURIAL

Planted a creeper

TIPS AND ADVICES
1. Early spotting of neck and lower body tumours - get a hamster vet to remove them.
2. Tumours get infected due to hamster scratching and friction with the floor during movement.
3. Malnutrition if not treated early. Emaciation and death soon.

RECALL YOUNGER DAYS
Owner provided some videos of the beloved hamster during younger days.