Pet Forum / Mammals / Rats / April 2008

I went to feed my boys this evening and found that my biggest boys back
foot was easily 3 times the normal size, which I could tell because the
other foot is fine. There are no bumps, so it doesnt look like the
pictures I've seen of bumble foot. There are no bones poking out of it,
and he let me touch it, and even squeeze it a bit without seeming to be
in pain. He isnt putting any pressure on it, but is still active, going
up and down the 4 level cage, though slower than normal, he is still
doing it. I am in between jobs, and cant afford to take him to the vet,
but I am worried that he may be sick. There is not just one part of the
foot that seems to be swollen, its the whole foot and part of the back
leg. Is it possible he sprained it and it is swollen from that? I gave
him some pain killers in a small dose that the emergency vet said would
be okay. What can I do? What should I be watching for that would tell
me that I need to take him to the
vet? Thanks guys for helping!

Jennifer