The Roborovski has 2 large subcutaneous tumours
Channel: Dr David Sing
Date: 2013-12-05

Tumours under the groin and the chest of this active much beloved Roborovski dwarf hamster keep growing bigger over the months. The hamster could not walk normally as the groin tumour hinders its movement. The owner decided to take the risk of surgery after being advised (Informed Consent) by Dr Sing Kong Yuen of Toa Payoh Vets.. Small tumours of less than 3 mm across are usually ignored by the Singapore hamster owners owing to worries of anaesthetic deaths on the operating table. 

In one case seen by me today, Dec 5, 2013, another Roborovski had an armpit tumour, 20% smaller in size than the one in this video.

The pastor father who brought it in for surgery said that from an engineering point of view, it would be much cheaper to replace it with a new Roborovski. The baby-boomer generation has this mindset as the anaesthetic and surgical fees of S$150 could buy 10 replacement Roborovskis. 

"That is not how your son think," I said. "Discard the old and ill. Buy a new young dwarf hamster!"  The Roborovski was operated by Dr Daniel Sing and went home shedding a heavy load as in the case videoed. 

However, a small percentage of dwarf hamsters that have gigantic tumours do not survive the anaesthesia and blood loss. Therefore, hamster owners need to know that early removal of much smaller subcutaneous tumours save lives by lessening the anaesthetic risk owing to much shorter operating time.

Credits: This excellent instructional video was edited and produced by Intern Clara Chua and the voice-over was done by her friend. Intern Daniel Low filmed the physical examination by me (Dr Sing Kong Yuen). This information was missing at the ending............ there needs to be a written video production manual for new interns...............

More Be Kind To Pets Vet educational videos are at www.toapayohvets.com/videos.htm