Archive article, written 2009–2016. Not yet reviewed by a veterinarian. About our articles
| Abscesses in Rodents |
| An abscess is a focal
accumulation of pus in a cavity formed by degenerating tissue. Abscesses
form when infectious agents (bacteria, fungi or parasites) or foreign
bodies lodge in tissue and cause a persistent inflammatory response.
Abscesses can form in any tissue in the body and the clinical changes
are determined by their location and the pressure they exert on nearby
organs, the degree of toxemia that they create from their bacterial
content, and the amount of tissue destroyed. What to Watch For: Swelling Redness Signs of focal irritation Excessive grooming Itchiness Discharge Moistened fur Firm, painful mass Drooling Persistent bad breath Facial swelling Depression Loss of appetite Weight loss Seek veterinary care immediately if a mass is noted, the mass suddenly disappears and the animal becomes acutely depressed or lethargic. Diagnosis: Abscesses are easily diagnosed by finding pus on fine-needle aspiration. In addition, your veterinarian may want to do the following: |
| History and physical
examination Complete blood count Blood chemistries Cytology (microscopic evaluation of cells) Biopsy and microscopic evaluation of affected tissues Culture and antimicrobial sensitivity testing Radiographs (X-rays) Ultrasound Treatment: Surgical removal of affected tissues Surgically opening and flushing the abscess Systemic and local antimicrobial agents Fluids and supportive nutrition Home Care Keep infected rodents in isolation during treatment. For skin abscesses, make certain that the abscess remains open so it will heal from the inside to the outside. On a daily basis, monitor fecal and urine output to assure proper food and water consumption and digestion, and monitor weight daily. Preventive Care: Prevention is the best cure. Keep sharp objects away from your rodents, and keep your rodent's living area clean and sanitized. You should also avoid contact between rodents that may result in puncture wounds from teeth or nails. Prevent your companion rodent from chewing on sharp or fibrous objects that may cut the gums or inside of the mouth or that may splinter and cause penetrating wounds in the mouth. If your companion rodent is scratched or cut, see your veterinarian as soon as possible so the wound can be properly cleaned and treated. |