what does a darker tail mean?

[slussier]

My 1 yr. fe Blue has always had a light tail, but the last week or so it has darkened, why? Also, we found a small lump on her neck under her ear. Is a tumor the only thing it could be? On a happier note, we recently added two new girls to the bunch...a 6 month old Siamese and a 6 week old Dumbo. We are having a ball watching them!

[angelratgirl]

the darker tail usually means that the rat has allowed their tail to get really dirty and old dead skin has built up. it is easy enough to clean with some soap and a toothbrush (not your current toothbrush tho) by brushing in the direction from butt to tail tip or side to side but never tip to butt.

the lump could be a tumor but it could also be an abcess. your vet should be able to tell which it is and if it is an abcess, he should be able to easily drain it for you.