Just a note to mention that surgery is not the only option for mast cell tumours. My B-Boy had a tumour growing on his nose and spreading onto one nostril. Not the easiest place to do surgery as there is no loose skin to stitch together and part of his nose would have had to go. Instead he had radiation therapy with excellent results. B-Boy has had no ill effects from the radiation, had maintained his healthy appetite and activity. (He is 9 years old and blinded by cataracts but remains very active and curious) The mild swelling around the site caused me concern (but not him) as I thought it may occlude his nostril and hinder his breathing. It didn't, however, and the "puffiness" only lasted about 12 hours. My son is disappointed that he doesn't glow in the dark. To see this old codger (bit of an Aussie term to go with the current trend) inspect every nook and cranny in the large back yard and navigate his way back indoors to sleep with his best buddies is a joy. Does anyone else have a blind ferret with a curious "floating" lope? Love and Dooks Shirley [Posted in FML issue 3188]