Lump behind ear

[JinjaMakes]

Hi all, long time no post!

Harry is now quite the old man. He's going a bit grey in places but seems fine.
I have noticed a lump on his head tonight though. I thought it was just a bald patch but on closer inspection it isn't.

It's a bit green and smelly so I'm guessing it's infected, I'm going to ring the vets tomorrow to get and appointment with the hammy doctor. Is there anything I can do in the mean time that might help?

I thought maybe some salt water on a cotton bud and try to give it a gently wipe?

Please see pic... Sorry if you're eating!

[crazyc4tlady]

Ohh I hope it's good news for you from the vet! Is it possibly an infected cut or something? Or does he seem bothered by it?
I'd personally try gently wiping it with the salt water like you said! Although I'm sure I've read you can use the thyme tea mixture as sort of an antibacterial wipe? I haven't personally tried that though. xx

[Pebbles82]

It's Ok my rhubarb yoghurt is finished now lol. I can't see very well but it almost looks like a cut that has gone a bit septic. Yes definitely a vet visit in order, he may need some antibiotics (and/or a diagnosis). Hope the little guy is feeling ok.

[JinjaMakes]

Thank you. It really doesn't seem to be bothering him at all.

I think he's had a fall and it's a scratch that's got infected. Def taking him to the vets to get it seen too though.

[racinghamster]

In an older hamster the vet might be able to give you an antiseptic powder to dab on the scab/wound rather than cream as cream might make it moist. Depending what it is of course. It could be a small wound that is trying to heal or a boil/cyst of some kind. Hope the vet can give you some answers. x

[JinjaMakes]

Thank you all. He's booked in for an appointment this evening. I will update when I get back.

[JinjaMakes]

We're back!

Diagnosis is he's an old hamster. Probably a scratch or small tumour, but due to his age it'll be easier on him use to leave it.

He's an old man and I don't want to annoy him too much. He got pretty angry at the vet and let out some squeaks!

[Thin Lizzy]

Oh poor Harry, it does look like it's healing though. If it was bothering him, he would be scratching at it.
Good on him for letting the vet know what he thinks.
How old is he?

[cypher]

Poor Harry! Obviously didn't enjoy the vet trip but it's still good to know what's going on, it can get a little difficult as they age, all we can do is keep them happy & comfortable as possible sometimes.
I hope his little lump clears up on it's own soon.