Rodent Ulcer

                          ------------

                    (eosinophilic granuloma)



                      General Information



Rodent ulcers usually first appear as a small, open sore on the

upper lip, just below the nose.  The center of the sore has an

ulcerated (scooped out) appearance.  If untreated, the sore

usually increases in size and depth.  In severe cases, the sore

may involve the entire upper lip and extend into the mouth.

Rodent ulcers occasionally appear in other areas, such as on the

back legs.



These sores are not usually painful and generally occur in female

cats averaging 5-6 years of age.  Their cause is unknown, but

constant licking of the ulcers probably enlarges them.  These

ulcers occasionally become cancerous (squamous cell carcinoma).



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Most rodent ulcers respond well to treatment with

    anti-inflammatory drugs.



2.  Frequency and length of treatment depend on the severity of

    the condition.  Your doctor will discuss the treatment

    necessary for your pet.



3.  Ulcers that do not heal fully with drug therapy may require

    surgical removal.



        Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your pet's ulcer does not heal.



    * Your pet develops new ulcers or sores in other areas of the

    body.



    * Your pet's ulcer recurs after apparent recovery.