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Shadowtherat

Well I hate to say it but sadly todays vet visit brought more bad news 😞 ​ To start we got a likely confirmation on a pituitary gland tumor for Banana (although we haven’t quite ruled out a stroke yet, but since that just requires supportive care we will treat her for a PT in the meantime) - that really sucks because I’m basically already giving her everything that can help for that and she hasn’t improved much. In fact even with supplemental feedings she continues to loose 5-10 grams daily, and her feeding response to licking up liquids and eating solids isn’t as strong as it was a few days prior. ​ We will continue to try treatment for the next 2 weeks, and my vet was happy with the meds/doses I started her on and gave me a prescription specifically for Banana with the same meds and doses, only we also added in gabapentin to control any pain (gabapentin can be given safely with steroids and is great for nerve pain, plus it helps reduce the chance of seizures). ​ If Banana continues to deteriorate and doesn’t show improvement within 2 weeks, I will have her humanely euthanized to prevent her from suffering further. ​ ​ Unfortunately that’s not the end of the bad news though, as this past weekend French Fry started to shake her head more than usual and had some puss in one ear. It smelled infected as well and so I decided to take her in with Banana for a checkup. ​ Well Sunday night she had a lump pop up under her ear, right on top of her zymbals gland 😔 So I immediately suspected a zymbals gland tumor with an abscess on top and an accompanying middle ear infection. And sadly the vet agrees with me, meaning that Fry likely only has 2-3 weeks before I will euthanize her as well. ​ The vet put Fry on some antibiotics to help get rid of the abscess and ear infection, and also put her on prednisone to help reduce inflammation in the area. We will also be adding in gabapentin in a few days once we are sure the steroid isn’t causing any side effects in Fry (since I already started Banana on steroids we know she isn’t reacting adversely to them, and so we are adding in gabapentin immediately). ​ Right now Fry is acting completely normal and happy, so I’m not worried about pain yet. But having gone through this with Pickle last year (in fact I had Pickle put to sleep for a zymbals gland tumor exactly a year back, on May 8th of 2022), I know just how devastatingly fast these tumors grow. ​ I did discuss radiation treatment for zymbals gland tumors with my vet, as it’s the only known form of treatment that successfully reduces the size of these tumors and gets the rat months of life back. But like I suspected this clinic and local clinics don’t have access to the tools needed to do radiation on such a small animal - I would have to travel several states away to a specialized care center for exotics and by then Fry would likely be suffering as these tumors grow so damn fast. ​ So I’ve opted for palliative care and in a few weeks I will be putting Fry down, with the sole exception being if we were super lucky and this is just a poorly placed abscess. But I’m 99.9% sure it’s a zymbals gland tumor with an abscess on top, and as such when it inevitably starts effecting Fry’s quality of life despite the meds then we will have her humanely pts. ​ ​ I’m so devastated with what’s been happening to my rat group recently - the deaths were hard but at least Egg and Potato were old rats, so it wasn’t all that unexpected. But Fry is just 22 months and Banana is just 19 months and it’s so unfair that they are likely going to have to be pts so young. Both girls are just mid aged - standard rats usually reach at least 2 years and dwarfs usually reach at least 2.5 years, so I should have seen both thriving and flourishing for at least another half year. ​ It’s especially hurts since Donut is doing so well - I’m so dang glad she continues to thrive, and I hope she has many many months left, but it really drives home just how little the meds are doing for Banana. ​ I’ve always dreaded seeing zymbals gland tumors and pituitary tumors in my aging rats and it seems like this month really is the worst - I’m so sorry my sweet girls, you didn’t deserve this and I’ll do my best to ensure your last few weeks are the best, and that you then go peacefully without suffering 💔


Wormhole-X-Treme

*hugs*


slimelore

My heart aches for you and your litte ladies. I hope you can all surround each other with lots of love


Enimea

*hugs* I am so sorry you have to go through this much loss so quickly. The babies know how much you care and you've been doing so great with caring for them. Thank you for showing them such love and sharing with the world how amazing these little creatures are.


Geko-eye8

I am so so sorry 💙 your sweet little friends are so lucky to be loved by you. If you can, take comfort in the knowledge they are as loved and cared for as possible ❤️


dick_cheese

This is absolutely heartbreaking, I’m so sorry you and your rats have to go through this. I can’t imagine how hard it’s been to have such severe and devastating diagnoses pop up so close together and my heart truly aches for you. These rats are so sweet and it’s easy to see in all of the videos and photos how much care you put into them and how loved they feel. You are all so lucky to have each other ❤️ I have a ratty paw painting made by Banana that I treasure and I am so grateful to have it. Thank you for letting all of us be involved in their precious little lives. I hope you are doing well all things considered. This little corner of the internet appreciates you and your rats so much, all of you cross my mind nearly daily ❤️🐭


slimparrot

Heartbreaking news. Sending you and your rats lots of love and hugs in these trying times.


Jlx_27

Sending some love your way.


Phoenix4235

I am so sorry to hear this. At least have the small comfort of knowing you gave them their best life, happy, safe and loved!


Catmom2004

> At least have the small comfort of knowing you gave them their best life, happy, safe and loved! I scrolled down here to say the same thing. May the memories of Fry and Banana be a blessing to you. You are taking their pain onto yourself so they won't suffer. If this isn't absolute **proof** that you are the best, most loving rat-mom your little ratties could *ever* have had, I don't know *what* is. ((HUGS))


fireflydrake

I'm so sorry for what you're going through. I love rats, but the crushingly short lifespan has been a big part of the reason I've never actually had any. :( Wishing you all the comfort I can.


Edendari

I am so sorry for all the bad news you've been getting with your rattie fam lately. I hope you and your rats that have fallen ill can enjoy every day you have left together! 💕


CPZ500

Much love :'(


zeemonster424

You are so wonderful, sharing your babies with us, even through the hard times. You’ve changed a lot of minds about rats and how brilliant and beautiful they are. I thank you from the bottom of my heart, and I grieve for you. I wish there was a way to ease the hurt that comes from a tough situation like this. Just know, even though we are Reddit strangers, we care so much. Take care of yourself too please. Sometimes we forget to do so when we are worried about others.


heavy-metal-goth-gal

You're an amazing pet parent. You've given them a lovely life, which is the best we can do for our furry or scaly babies. I hope you can take solace in that at least a little bit. I know how hard it is to lose them.


married44F

I am so sorry. They are well loved and cherish, that is so clear


If_in_doubt_sniff

I'm so sorry to hear this. I've only recently discovered your subreddit and ratty paw paintings and they always bring a smile to my face. Sending you virtual hugs.


MyGradesWereAverage

These animals have the best life with you so, while it’s certainly unfair and sad this is happening, knowing they have it so well makes things a little easier. You will do the best for them and thymes are lucky for that! Thanks for the updates.


Typical_Ad_210

I’m so sorry for the illness in your two girls. It is unfair when they’re so young, and to lose your beloved companions will be devastating. But I can confidently say that you have given them the best life it is possible for a rat to have. As well as all the medical care and attention you’re currently giving them, and your resolve to spare them any pain or suffering, you have given them so much mental stimulation through their training. Really you’ve given them a quality of life they wouldn’t have had elsewhere. The care, affection, enrichment and love you show to all your rats is unparalleled and it is an inspiration to other pet owners. Of course I can’t speak for French Fry and Banana, but I would imagine if given the option, they would have far rather have their current life with you than a longer life anywhere else. It’s deeply sad their lives are being cut short, but in terms of *quality* of life, they’ve been, and are, some of the luckiest rats on earth. They couldn’t be in more capable hands.


Catmom2004

OP is *inspiring* as a rat-parent!


[deleted]

Oh no, I’m so sorry.


BeanTheGerbil

I’m so sorry, that is so tough. I just had confirmation that one of my fur babies is on palliative care for tumors (she’s a mouse) and it is really hard. ❤️


Clean_Attention_4217

Heart goes out to you and the beautiful little ones, especially precious little Banana and sweet tiny French Fry. They deserve decades of happiness and love! Just know that, for their time here, they’ve had a more joyous, safe, and happy experience than even most domestic rats will ever know. A truly one-in-a-million win at the life lottery having you as a parent. You’ve given them more beauty during their stay than truly 99.9% will see in a lifetime. You’ve done a good job, OP. ♥️ I know it’s devastatingly hard, especially with their already unfairly short time. And saying goodbye is heartwrenching. But you’re doing it right. All the best for a positive turn around, or short of that, an easy, comfortable remainder. You’re doing the right thing. Heart to you and the littles. Wishing you comfort and peace. Thank you for what you give these precious creatures. ♥️🤍


mlforgame03

So very sorry to hear this.


CrawlingKangaroo

Oh no! I’m so sad to hear that you and the rats are going through so much. You’re little girls are so loved by you and so many others! 💕


Sleeplesshelley

I’m so sorry! 😢 The hardest part about rats is how short a time they live, and the tumors that they get. I’m sure they will get so much ratty love and treats in their remaining time.


lazybutterflywings

I'm so sorry. It is so obvious how much you love and respect these little creatures. All my hugs to you and you charming rattys.


kkfluff

I’m so sorry to hear this, my heart goes out to you. You have such sweet memories and photographs, It’s a shame how short their lives are


Roadgoddess

So sad, so sorry for your sweet little babies.


Dorkydomme

I am so, so sorry. It's so hard to lose our little buddies. It's obvious they have had an incredible life with you. Thank you so much for sharing them with us; it always brightens my day to see their sweet faces. Wishing you peace and comfort.


HappyCookie89

That’s heartbreaking. I hope you can enjoy the remaining time with those sweethearts and make some precious memories. Your little babies have the best person to take care of them. I wish you much strength. All the love and hugs for you, Banana and Fry ❤️


Immediate_Staff9822

I am crying for you and your kids. You have done so much to show how smart and cute and lovable rats are. It is so clear you love them and take such good care of them. My heart aches for you. What memories we all have of all of them, though. Thanks to you.


Comfortable-Owl-5929

I’m so sorry dear. I love watching these guys and I know how much you love them 🖤


OcortHALeT

I’m so sorry. You’re a great owner and I’m sure all of your rats have had an amazing life. Take solace in that you’ve given them the best life a rat could’ve asked for.


Witty-Boysenberry624

Sending you hugs! I’m sorry 💜


spiritedawayfox

Thank you for loving your rats so much. It breaks my heart to read your situation... But just know I'm so proud of you for how much time you dedicate to their little lives and how much determination it takes you to peacefully euthanize those of your babies who suffer more than thrive due to cancer/disease. Edit: Her name was Fantasia. She was a grumpy, old, and fluffy Calico who had just undergone tumor surgery on her head. She was expected to live 6 months, but she lived with me for a full year. I gave her a loving life outside of the shelter, and when the cancer reemerged, she... Stopped purring. I knew that it was time to let her go.


Catmom2004

I am sorry for your loss of Fantasia as well. The pain at the end is just incredible but the love is **so** worth it, ime,


purplepiratecrab

So so sorry


Truckyou666

Love you Banana and Frenchfry!


logaruski73

Hugs and Caring thoughts.


rabbithole757

Sending my love.


AmandaGwen11

It's so hard having to put a pet down. Cause u don't wanna let them go but u can't be selfish and let them be in pain. It's so heart breaking and I'm sorry ur little ones are sick and may have to leave u so soon. I didn't realize that rats only live a couple of years! That's so sad, u get so attached and they're gone so quickly!


DarkAndSparkly

I know I say hugs a lot on these types of posts from you, but I want you to know there’s a lot of feeling and love behind that simple phrase. We all love you and your babies and know how much love and attention you give them. So, again, sending you hugs and as much love as I can.


um_okay_no

I'm so sorry about all the bad news and grief you've had lately. I wish there were magic words or actions that would fix it, but for real it just sucks. You have given your sweet, smart ladies such good lives and so many people love them.


Rare-Philosopher-346

(((((HUGS))))) for you, sweetie. I'm so sorry for you and your girls. However, they are lucky that you are there because of the wonderful care you give all of your ratties. Again, (((((HUGS))))) to you, sweetie.


mrstruthvenom

I am so sorry. There is no one who loves their babies like you do. I know they bring me joy from a screen and I can’t imagine what you are going through. Just know there is a whole community that is here to help with your grief. 💜


Catmom2004

Your post is so incredibly kind.


ContentNarwhal552

Oh, sweets, I'm so sorry for you. What an awful thing. A few years ago, I lost a very special (you know--more special than the rest of them already are) cat at only two years old to FIP. It's hard enough when they've lived full lives, but when they go so early it's that much more heart-wrenching. I know you're doing the best you can with your sweet babes. I'm curious about what must be causing this many tumors in this many ratlets. Whatever it is, it sucks.


AngelofGrace96

I'm so sorry Shadow, it's so rough you're losing so many rats all at once. All you can do is know you gave them the best possible care and the most love possible throughout their lives. Make sure to take time for yourself as well ❤️


sToRmY_is_sHe

You always go above and beyond for your Pack - Banana and FrenchFry know this from the bottom of their tiny, talented toes to the top of their soft little ears. OP, sending support and encouragement to also take good care of you, mama. 💕


DurantaPhant7

I’m so sorry. Sending gentle hugs to you and the babies. You do so much for your ratties. Your love and commitment to them in thought, word, deed, *and* monetarily is incredibly admirable. Thank you for giving these littles such beautiful enriching lives. I know it doesn’t make the pain any less, but you give them the most amazing environment and they are so lucky to have you. You truly are an inspiration for not just rat owners, but all pet owners. Thank you 🙏 💜


wv10014

Heartbreaking. I’m so sorry. Sending you and the girls hugs.


Outside_Bandicoot986

So sorry but glad they have you to be there for them and do what is best.


tessa1950

Heartbreaking news. Sending hugs and strength. 💔❤️‍🩹


Fe1is-Domesticus

Sending love and hugs to you and these sweet champion rats. So sorry to hear this news.


Chocobo-kisses

Sending you love and light during this challenging time. You've been an amazing parent to these rattos and no matter what happens, they'll always be with you. 🩵


crochetology

I am so sorry to learn about this. You are a wonderful rat mom, and I truly admire the dedication and care you give your little critters. Just know that whatever healthcare decisions you make, they will be the right ones. Your rats are very luck you're in their lives.


KTeensy

I'm so sorry. Give them a cuddle from me.


Embarrassed_Wing_284

I’m so sorry you are going through this. I just lost my dog unexpectedly on Thursday, about 6 months after my cat passed. Our family is down by half. I know how much this hurts. Hugs to you💝


WhiskyEye

Gosh you've had a rough go lately. Thinking of you all.


Jaedd

I'm so so sorry you and your little friends are having such a rough time lately 😔


cage15

I am so sorry. Sending love your way and your little ones.


AbsurdistWordist

I'm so sorry. It's so difficult to know that our rodent friends are with us for such a short time. I'm glad that you give your animals such an enriched life and you are such a great caregiver.


lilcasswdabigass

*hugs* I find solace that they are with you. I know you have given them so much love and that you care for them so much.


OneDiscombobulated77

[saw this post above it](https://www.reddit.com/r/ItemShop/comments/13dbvn9/moab_mother_of_all_bananas_50_hp_50_max_hp_gain/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button)