My dwarf hamster has a lump on its leg. What should I do to help him?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Male | 1 year and 4 months old
My daughter's Russian dwarf hamster has developed a large lump under the skin on his left leg. It seems to have appeared over about a week and is the size of a marble. Could we do anything to help him
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on October 8th, 2017
It may be an abscess or mass. A visit to your veterinarian would be recommended. A fine needle aspirate can be done in the clinic to collect samples for pathology. If it is an abscess, it may be drained and antibiotics dispensed. If it a mass, benign or malignant, you can discuss treatment options with your veterinarian.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on April 3rd, 2018
Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! What you are describing can be an abscess, a growth or mass, or a deep wound. I would be happy to take a look at a photo to give you a better idea of what may be going on. You can also have Gus seen by a vet as he may need antibiotics or pain medication. I hope all is well!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on July 10th, 2018
Hamsters are prone to getting tumors and abscesses. This could bei either, or a swelling after injuring the leg. Without seeing a photo and being able to palpate the lesion, I am afraid, I cannot tell you which type of lump it is. I suggest you take Otis to your vet for an exam. He may need pain medicine and/or antibiotics, if this is an abcess or a fracture and a tumor may need to be removed surgically.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on February 21st, 2019
Thanks for reaching out about Fred. A hard lump on the leg could mean an abscess, neoplasia, fracture/callus, cyst, just to name a few. Its good to hear he is not favoring the leg, but a veterinary examination is recommended to determine if this needs additional attention before getting worse. Good luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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