LEHIGH VALLEY ANIMAL HOSPITAL
CASE PRESENTATION: PEACH’S STORY
VETERINARIANS AND STAFF
Kimberly Mickley, DVM, DABVP - Avian Practice
David Ferrari, VMD
Staff of LVAH
PATIENT
"Peach" an approximately 1 year-old female rat
PRESENTING COMPLAINT
Peach presented to Lehigh Valley Animal Hospital for a mass that was increasing in size located behind her left front leg.
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION
On examination, Peach had a soft, mobile, grape sized mass located behind her left front leg. No other masses were palpated during examination. Due to the location of the mass, a mammary tumor was suspected. The rest of the physical exam was within normal limits.
DIAGNOSIS / TREATMENT
Because this suspected mammary mass was growing rapidly in size, surgical removal was recommended. Peach was admitted to the hospital for surgical removal of the mass. It was a couple of weeks between the initial visit and the surgical procedure and by this time the mass had grown to twice its original size! Prior to the mass removal, Peach was given a pre-medication for pain relief and sedation. When these medications took affect, Peach was anesthetized using gas anesthesia and oxygen via a mask. Once Peach was under gas anesthesia, her heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature were all monitored closely. When the mass removal was completed, the gas anesthesia was turned off and Peach recovered smoothly. She was placed in a body wrap bandage for 2 days so she would not chew out her sutures. Additionally, Peach was given liquid oral pain medication, an anti-inflammatory, and an antibiotic to go home with.
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Peach recovering from surgery in her body wrap. |
The mass that was removed was likely a mammary mass, which is seen in unspayed female rats. Even with surgical removal, these masses can reoccur.
At this time, Peach is doing well. The mass that was removed weighed 0.068kg and she is much more comfortable and happier now!
Peach recovering from surgery in her body wrap.
GENERAL INFORMATION
We recommend all small mammals, birds, and reptiles have annual examination just like our cat and dog friends. As you can see from this case presentation, Peach’s owners care for her deeply; they elected to have the mass removal done. It is important to know there are options for our other furry and feathered friends to pursue if they are having health issues. Some of these options include bloodwork, radiographs, supportive care, surgical procedures, ultrasound, and even MRI! Do not hesitate to contact a veterinarian who has experience with exotic animal medicine and surgery to set up an appointment for your pet. It is important to establish a relationship with a qualified, compassionate veterinarian before issues arise.
If you have additional questions or concerns about your furry or feathered friend, please contact Dr. Mickley at Lehigh Valley Animal Hospital, the Allentown office.
Thanks to Peach and her owners!
Peach after her surgery!
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