My 7 year old dragon, SeaHorn, developed a hard, little bump on the left side of his jaw. I pulled down his gum-line, and saw a fleshy bump (kind of looks like the top of a cauliflower) in his mouth, on his gums. I took him to the vet but he did not now what it was though. Said it could be an injury of sort, something viral, or a tumor -benign or malignant He said that he could cut it off, and send it to the lab for biopsy results. My dragon was freaking out with the vet holding him down. I felt so bad of him. I did not want to put SeaHorn through any unnecessary pain, so I opted for the path of least resistance first -a round of antibiotics. I am currently unemployed and am terrified these bills could push me more into financial ruin. Unfortunately though, the vet did not seem enthusiastic or hopeful about the antibiotics. However SeaHorn has a healthy appetite, is of a healthy weight, and is active. Perhaps if any of the above were poor, I would have opted to biopsy. I don't know if I made the right decision though. The vet said I could take him back if I change my mind and decide to biopsy it.
I have been watching SeaHorn closely and the "plaque" hasn't grown/shrunk since last week. I just wish I knew what this thing was. Is it mouth rot? I have enclosed pictures. Any input is so greatly appreciated.
My bearded dragon's set-up's:
40 gallon aquariums
Zoo Med 10.0 fluorescent bulbs, changed every 6 months
95 watt bulbs for basking -temps around 96 degrees in basking spot
Paper towels for bottom of the cage.
I have been watching SeaHorn closely and the "plaque" hasn't grown/shrunk since last week. I just wish I knew what this thing was. Is it mouth rot? I have enclosed pictures. Any input is so greatly appreciated.
My bearded dragon's set-up's:
40 gallon aquariums
Zoo Med 10.0 fluorescent bulbs, changed every 6 months
95 watt bulbs for basking -temps around 96 degrees in basking spot
Paper towels for bottom of the cage.