Chin Lump

[Suze5202]

Poor Coco Pig is in the wars again. She has had a benign tumour on her side for the last 18 months which our vet recommended leaving due to its location and the risk to her in surgery. But now she’s got a second lump under her chin. Vet trip yesterday and when he tried putting a needle in, nothing would come out. My last pig to have lump under her chin had an abscess which was eventually flushed out due to it growing back when the course of antibiotics finished. Vet has prescribed antibiotics this time, but said to keep an open mind if it doesn’t shrink. I’m assuming he means it’s a second tumour and wondered what my options are? Also throwing a spanner in the works is that I go on holiday for two weeks in 10 days time and would hate anything to happen to her while I’m away.

 

[Lady Kelly]

Hi really sorry to hear your predicament. Was the vet able to take a biopsy to diagnosis the lump? What happens when you go on holiday - do you have a pet sitter or do they go in boarding? I don't know how soon any results would be back but when I have had very ill (terminal) pigs and have been on holiday I have left very express instructions for my mum who usually cares for them (basically take them to my normal vet and follow the vets recommendations) thankfully it's never come to that.

 

[Wiebke]

Poor Coco Pig is in the wars again. She has had a benign tumour on her side for the last 18 months which our vet recommended leaving due to its location and the risk to her in surgery. But now she’s got a second lump under her chin. Vet trip yesterday and when he tried putting a needle in, nothing would come out. My last pig to have lump under her chin had an abscess which was eventually flushed out due to it growing back when the course of antibiotics finished. Vet has prescribed antibiotics this time, but said to keep an open mind if it doesn’t shrink. I’m assuming he means it’s a second tumour and wondered what my options are? Also throwing a spanner in the works is that I go on holiday for two weeks in 10 days time and would hate anything to happen to her while I’m away.

Hi! Has your vet considered an autopsy and whether it could be lymphoma?

It is a worrying time, especially when you are about to go on holiday. Have you got somebody or could your vet help you to find somebody experienced enough to care for your guinea pig in your absence and to make sure that it is being seen by your vet whenever necessary?

 

[Suze5202]

They are going to experienced pig owners when we are away. They have three of their own and I trust them, but it’s a lot to put on them and I’m worried. The issue is compounded by the fact our dog is also not well and all our spare cash is being used for his vet bills until the insurance pay us out.

I’m going to try the antibiotic and metacam for the next week but if that doesn’t work then it’s back to the vets to see what they can do.