by Janet Farricelli CPDT-KA

Created on: November 30, 2008

Name the word rodent ulcer and what naturally comes to mind is some sort of wound developing from a rodent's bite or from general contact with any member of the mouse family. Ironically, rodent ulcer has nothing to do with rodents, perhaps the only link this condition may have with rodents is in its appearance, slightly resembling a bite wound. It appears that this term may have derived from farmers owning cats since they believed this ulcer developed as a result of their mouse infested barns.

Also known as indolent ulcer or eosinophilic ulcer, a rodent ulcer typically begins as a yellow or pink glistening spot mostly found in the central area of the upper lip or on the tongue. Later, the spot swells leaving gums and teeth exposed. Rodent ulcers can be very unsightly, causing a temporary disfiguration, however in most cases they do not itch nor do they seem to cause any pain.

Causes of Rodent Ulcers in Cats

A rodent ulcer must always be investigated. The reason behind this is that in some cases, rodent ulcers have been known to upgrade into squamous cell carcinomas or a fibrosarcomas. Another worrisome feature is that rodent ulcers have been found in some cases, in cats exposed to the leukemia virus.

On a brighter note, rodent ulcers may be caused by dental infections or allergies. In some cases, a low immune system may be the cause. Diet has been reported to play a role as well, since some cats seem to have responded well to diet changes or the addition of supplements. Insect bites have also been reported as a cause with flea bite allergies being the top culprit, followed by mosquito bites. When a definitive cause cannot be found, a hereditary role is suspected.

Treatment of Rodent Ulcers in Cats

Corticosteroids under the form of prednisone orally or Depo-Medrol by injection are helpful because of their anti-inflammatory properties. Diet changes, flea control and the elimination of possible triggering factors, should help address the underlying cause. Some cases seem to respond well to a course of antibiotics especially should the ulcer become infected. Possible precancerous ulcers must undergo radiation treatment.

In most cases, thankfully rodent ulcers are just temporary. They may however, be very bothersome especially when they interefere with eating and grooming habits. While mostly succesful, the use of cortico-steroids should not be too lenghty as they may cause adverse side effects and even debilitating diesases. Consult with your vetrinarian about the ideal treatment plan.

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