Dwarf Scent Gland looks red

[RolyRocks]

Hi
My little man Loki will be 2 years old next month and I feel so very lucky to still have him with me as I know this is a good age for a dwarf. I also feel extremely sad that I know we don't have lots of time left together.
This past month he has been a little quieter, not sure if it's the time of year, the colder weather or most likely, probably his age. I also feel he may have lost a little weight (I am going to weigh him later when he's awake). I have also noticed his scent gland on his tummy looks a little red. It doesn't appear swollen, but I am worried as I have read about tumors. Would this appear as a lump? He has been going mad in his sand bath recently, throwing sand everywhere, is he just having fun or could this be a sign of something I should be worried about?
Thanks in advance for any help and advice you can offer me.

[sushi_78]

It could possibly be sore or itchy, and that might make him rub or drag it over things or overgroom it, which would make it red and inflamed.

[RolyRocks]

Originally Posted by sushi_78

It could possibly be sore or itchy, and that might make him rub or drag it over things or overgroom it, which would make it red and inflamed.

Would you suggest a trip to the vets or bathing it at home?
Thanks

[sushi_78]

Originally Posted by RolyRocks

Would you suggest a trip to the vets or bathing it at home?
Thanks

I don't know whether washing it is likely to help if it doesn't appear clogged. Also I'd be wary that dampness might make any itching or soreness worse. You could try but I think it would be best for him to see a vet, especially if it turns out he has lost weight as that could indicate a wider health issue. A vet might want to try an anti-inflammatory such as Metacam.

[RolyRocks]

Originally Posted by sushi_78

I don't know whether washing it is likely to help if it doesn't appear clogged. Also I'd be wary that dampness might make any itching or soreness worse. You could try but I think it would be best for him to see a vet, especially if it turns out he has lost weight as that could indicate a wider health issue. A vet might want to try an anti-inflammatory such as Metacam.

I weighed him this evening and he is 50g. He was always around 68g but I feel the weight loss has been more gradual than sudden. I checked him over again and his scent gland doesn't look enlarged or inflamed and I can't feel any lumps or bumps.
Maybe a check up at the vets would be best, I just don't want to cause him too much stress at his age.