My old hamster had a skin lump on his back that fell off. Is it normal?

Question

Hi! My hamster, Rex, apparently had pocket of skin on his back that looked like a puss filled area. We went to the vet, and he said something like it was "a kerosene filled pocket of skin related to old age." Rex is an old hamster, so I understand. He said their was nothing to do about it. Well yesterday, it apeared to have fallen off. There was crusty skin, and a little bit of dried up blood around the area. Should I be worried? Pet's info: Small Animal | Hamster | Male | unneutered | 2 years and 3 months old | 0 lbs

Catherine Stecyk · Accepted Answer

Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It is likely that your veterinarian was referring to a keratin-filled cyst. Keratin is a molecule that makes up skin and nails, so accumulations of it can form firm, callous-like lumps. It is OK that it has fallen off. Just make sure the area does not appear to continue to bleed or cause your hamster irritation - i.e. he tries to scratch or bite at it. I hope this is helpful! Thanks for seeking help from a veterinarian for Rex!

My old hamster had a skin lump on his back that fell off. Is it normal?

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