451. Hamster's everted cheek pouch e-mail

... to judy

show details 10:56 PM (3 hours ago)

Dear Doctor,
I have a hamster that has an everted cheek pouch. Since yesterday, her cheek pouch has been hanging outside her mouth. She seems to be in pain. Does she have to go to surgery? How much does it cost and how long does it take? I would also like to make an appointment on Wednesday, 25th May 2011 between 3 to 5 pm. Can you confirm if you are available? Please reply as soon as possible. Thank you.

Regards,
Name

E-MAIL REPLY FROM DR SING

Tuesday, May 22, 2011 2.04 am

I am Dr Sing from Toa Payoh Vets. Thank you for your email.

In reply, your hamster may need surgery if the everted cheek pouch cannot be put back inside the cheek, e.g. if it is infected and damaged badly. Cost is capped at the maximum of $150 for consultation, anaesthesia and surgery (longer duration as likely to be in your case). It takes around 10 minutes for surgery but with preparation and gas anaesthesia to effect, it will be around 25 minutes . I will only be available at 9.30 am on May 25, 26, 27 which are respectively Wed, Thu and Friday to operate as I will be studying and taking examinations for these 3 evenings.

Therefore, if we can't meet, you may consult Dr Vanessa Lin or Dr Teo by phoning 6254-3326 for appointment. Or you can leave the hamster with my assistant on Tuesday with instructions for my assistant that I will be attending to this hamster. I will operate at around 9.15 am on Wed, Thur or Friday for emergency cases such as yours. If you need to see me, it will be at 9.15 am for the above-mentioned dates or you can consult and get surgery done by the two associate vets.

Best wishes.