Dear Anonymous:
 
>I need more information concerning a tumor or hard bump on the tip of my
>ferrets tail.  Went to two vets.  Last one quoted me $300 for surgery
>(amputate tail).  Has lost some weight and is not eating the way he used
>to.  Has become a bit aggressive with other pets in household, but not
>with people.  No hair loss.  Is hungry but only for treats not regular
>food.
 
It sounds very much like a chordoma on the table, which we discussed
yesterday on the FML, but at that time in the context of a tumor on the
neck.  90% of chordomas appear on the tip of the tail, lucky for us.
 
More information available on chordomas for those who want all of the
details at http://www.afip.org/ferrets - the short of it is that amputation
is the best and most effective way to handle this, and the tumor will
continue to grow, and may become painful due to bony invasion.
 
Usually chordomas don't cause weight loss or aggression - you may want to
look closer at the possibility of an adrenal tumor, even though hair loss
is not apparent.  It may be something to keep in the back of your mind.
 
Oh, some vets do accept payments on time - it make take a while to find
them, but many vets are people, too.  Don't assume that your vet won't
schedule payments - always ask.  Nothing ventured, you know.
 
With kindest regards,
Bruce Williams, DVM
[Posted in FML issue 3315]