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Old 02-25-2012, 05:41 PM   #1
loveeisourweapon
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Default Swollen scent gland

Hey everyone. I recently noticed a weird lump on my male dwarf hamster, Mumford's, belly. I googled it, and apparently it's a swollen scent gland. Do you think I should take him to the vet? I wanted a first opinion because i took my other hamster, Leo, to the vet, only for her to tell me he was fine and me having to pay 80 dollars...so I want to make sure I actually have a reason(: Thanks!
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Old 02-25-2012, 06:21 PM   #2
kyrilliondaemon
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Default Re: Swollen scent gland

Maybe wipe it with some warm water first? With a bit of luck its just got clogged up and that could solve the issue and save you 80 dollars.
If that doesn't help, then yes unfortunately I'd suggest a vet visit.
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Old 02-26-2012, 02:52 AM   #3
Lynternette
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Default Re: Swollen scent gland

I had a look in my Hamsterlopaedia and Sam is spot on. The only thing it adds is that you must not squeeze the swelling. I hope Mumford gets better soon. Mumford xxx.
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Old 02-28-2012, 03:56 AM   #4
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Default Re: Swollen scent gland

I agree. Sometimes scent glands on the tummy area seem lumpy or swollen but just need a wee clean with warm water and a cotton ball. If however you norice any small cysts or warts on or beside the actual gland that don`t seem normal, definately have your vet take a look as these can be scent gland tumours. But are easily removed if caught while small and have not spread internally. If the gland is just line shaped and a bit thick when running your finger over it gently, this sounds fine. Difficult to say when not avtually seeing or feeling it though.
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Old 02-28-2012, 09:04 AM   #5
Scarlett
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Default Re: Swollen scent gland

I hope Mumford gets better... Use the cleaning techniques Racing and Sam suggested. In my research about hamsters, I heard this will stop the swelling if it is just something that will pass once its cleansed. Sugar sends get well hugs Mumford's way!
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Old 02-28-2012, 11:14 AM   #6
fluffymunchkins
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Default Re: Swollen scent gland

If it is something such as a scent gland tumour then I would get it checked immediately.
Due to him being a dwarf and depending on his age, it will be up to you and the vet whether surgery is worth the risk. Having a lump removed on a hamster isn't an easy task.

Fingers crossed its simply blocked and needs a good clean x
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Old 02-28-2012, 12:08 PM   #7
jess_jolie
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Default Re: Swollen scent gland

Apollo's scent gland feels a little bit crusty and raised tonight - quite yellow but no discharge or blood or pain.

Im gonna give it a clean and hope he's just a little blocked up. Do you just use luke-warm water and a cotton bud?
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Old 02-28-2012, 12:12 PM   #8
fluffymunchkins
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Default Re: Swollen scent gland

yes thats what I'd do Jess, usually that'll shift it
Sometimes they need a bit of a (very gentle) squeeze to get it moving. It sounds horrible I know, but it shouldn't hurt them if you do it correctly x
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Old 02-28-2012, 12:16 PM   #9
jess_jolie
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Default Re: Swollen scent gland

Ive given it a wash - it feels a little bit raised up but doesn't look/feel too much more then normal - I'll just keep my eye on it for a few days and checked it doesn't get crusty again.

Hows best to squeeze it if I need to?
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Old 02-28-2012, 12:53 PM   #10
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Default Re: Swollen scent gland

Just had another little look and it's all cleaned up, I think he's been grooming since I left him
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