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My gerbil has a growing tumor. What are my options without surgery?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Gerbil | Female | unspayed | 2 years and 10 months old | 0.95 lbs

my gerbil Saphira has a growing lump on her side(started in Feb. as a tiny bump and now is the size of a cherry tomato, seems to grow each month. I took her to a vet who said it was a mammary tumour and only surgery would help and it could grow back after. she is almost 3 so decided not to do surgery as there was a risk she wouldn't pull through. She is acting as if she doesn't even have a lump, moves well, eats and drinks on her own, how else can I help her?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on September 29th, 2019

Unfortunately besides surgery, there is nothing you can do but monitor her quality of life. If Saphira reaches a point where she isn't eating or drinking, or has trouble moving, is losing weight, and/or is lethargic, I'd consider letting her go peacefully with the vet.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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