They may also lose the ability to control their front legs. Rats with certain types of cancer may also have seizures. Your rat may also lose its appetite. [2] X Research source

Because rats have such extensive mammary glands, they are most likely to develop tumors along their abdomen. Even male rats are prone to these types of tumors, though they aren’t as likely to get them as females. Tumors can be benign, meaning non-cancerous, or malignant, meaning cancerous. Malignant tumors tend to be more aggressive. [4] X Research source

Not every lump is a tumor. Lumps can also be things like abscesses, swollen lymph nodes, bumblefoot, or a cyst, for instance. Your vet can help you figure out what’s wrong.

Rats only live 3-5 years. Sometimes, even making the tumor smaller without removing it completely can increase your rat’s quality of life. Pituitary glands cannot be operated on. [7] X Research source

Rats with mammary gland tumors are likely to grow more tumors. If you decide to go through with the surgery, you should weigh the fact that new ones could grow in and you may need to have the surgery done again. [9] X Research source

A hospital cage is a small cage with no levels which helps keep your rat less active while healing.

You can also use a pet-safe heating pad, such as Snuggle Safe, which you heat up in the microwave. Wrap it in a towel before placing it in the cage.

If your rat keeps chewing on the sutures, it may need to wear a collar while it’s healing.

If your rat is in more pain than the NSAIDs can deal with, your vet may recommend you go back and forth between the narcotic and the NSAID in the week or so after surgery.

Avoid litter-type bedding while your rat is healing, as it can stick to the surgical site.

You don’t need to move the other rats out. They will usually comfort their rat friend while it is sick. [17] X Research source Provide soft bedding, such as fleece, flannel, or t-shirt material.

Another option is a heating pad you heat up in the microwave. Snuggle Safe is meant for pets. Put a towel around it and set it in the cage. If your rat can’t move, take extra care to make sure the heat is on the absolute lowest setting because you don’t want it to overheat.

At this point, use any foods your rat likes to eat, such as mashed avocado with added mayonnaise, mashed banana, baby food pudding, or baby food such as cereals, fruits, or dinners. You can also use oatmeal, even one with a flavoring such as maple and brown sugar. When feeding the rat, try switching between foods as it loses interest with one.

The sugar will encourage the rat to drink and provide extra energy. Do this as often as you can. Try once an hour.