>I have a ferret named Harpo whom I rescused 3 1/2 years ago. Harpo went >to the vet last week and was diagnosed with a urinary tract infection. >He was put on clavamox 2x a day, .4 is the dosage. Today I discovered a >hard, pea size lump right next to his anus. I have a vet appt on Friday >but was wondering if anyone might know what this might be, and is it an >emergency? Dear XXXXXXX: It is most likely not an emergency, but something that should be removed on Friday, if at all possible. The impact anal gland differential is a valid one, but I would also consider a sweat gland tumor. Recently I also had a malignancy arising from the lining of the anal sac itself. The tumors in the perianal area are associated with a higher rate of malignancy, so it is better removed sooner than later, and I would not consider trying a round of antibiotics first. This is one for surgery for sure. With kindest regards, Bruce H. Williams, DVM, DACVP Join the Ferret Health List at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Ferret-Health-list [Posted in FML issue 3415]