My cat's bottom lip is swollen and losing hair. What's the cause?

This condition is called Eosinophilic Granuloma Complex , also known as "rodent ulcer", The exact cause of feline eosinophilic granuloma complex is unknown. Some research studies suggest that a form of allergic response (hypersensitivity reaction) may be involved in the majority of cases. This is more likely in cases that are recurrent. Other studies suggest that the condition may at least be partially genetic or inheritable. Flea and insect control is very important in the treatment of feline eosinophilic complex. This is due to the suspected hypersensitivity reaction cause of the condition. Insect bites can trigger an exaggerated immune response in affected cats, causing or worsening clinical signs. Some cats respond to elimination or hypoallergenic diets, suggesting an underlying food allergy as the cause. Most cats diagnosed with feline eosinophilic granuloma complex benefit from a hypoallergenic food trial. Corticosteroids are the most common treatment to control the symptoms of eosinophilic granuloma complex. you will need to visit your vet to get this treatment.

Skin lesions can be caused by bacterial, parasitic or fungal infection, dietary or environmental allergies or sensitivities, immune system disorders, or a combination of the above. Cats can also be prone to an inflammatory condition called eosinophilic granuloma complex that can look similar to the pictures of what Ash has. See the link below for more information: https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951528 I recommend making an appointment to have Ash seen by your veterinarian to help determine the cause of the lesions you’ve noticed and to make sure they are treated appropriately. The vet will likely want to look at a sample from the area under the microscope to determine if there is an infection and to figure out what medication is appropriate for treatment. In the meantime, you can bathe Ash in hypoallergenic shampoo for cats to clean the area, and put an e-collar (cone) on Ash to help reduce the risk of scratching at the area, but this will likely not resolve the lesions.

From the photos it looks like Xena has a "rodent ulcer" (aka: eosinophilic granuloma complex). It is best to have her checked out by your regular veterinarian to get a definitive diagnosis and treatment. ( https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951528 ) Hope this helps. Best wishes.

She could have an eosinophilic granuloma which is common in cats and can be caused by an allergic response. The lesion may become ulcerated and is typically treated with a corticosteroid. If she has any fleas then she should be treated for fleas. You could also put her on a hypoallergenic diet and see if that helps. Try to find a low cost clinic or a vet that would take a payment plan so you can get her treated. If she just needs a corticosteroid then it shouldn't be very expensive. Hope she gets better soon!

Hello and thank you for taking such good care of Rosie. I really appreciate you taking the time to submit pictures of her lips and mouth. Cats can sometimes get the same kinds of mouth and lip diseases that people get. Perhaps she bumped it against something or scraped it on rough surface as she was being curious. Another reason for swollen lips are possible allergic reactions to insect bites or noxious substances. In addition, dental disease or improper teeth occlusion can can cause lip abrasions. My best advice is this: As long as she is eating, drinking, and playing normally, give the lip 3 days to improve and get smaller. If there is no improvement in that time, or if the lip gets bigger in the meantime, please have her seen by your veterinarian for a thorough oral examination. I hope this helps. Thanks for your question.

This is a common look for cats who are allergic to their food bowls -- if any of his bowls are plastic, I'd recommend switching them out for glass and washing daily (or at least every other day). It could be caused by other allergies or a bug bite as well, and often goes away on it's own. If switching bowls (if applicable) and giving it a week doesn't make it go away, I'd recommend a vet visit.

Looks like a condition called esosinophilic granuloma complex which can occur in cats. It appears like it should be very painful. If you notice he is eating or grooming less, these are signs he is uncomfortable. Sometimes this is caused by an allergy. I would recommend changing food bowls and try a hypoallergenic diet. Ultimately seeing your veterinarian to have a biopsy performed to confirm the diagnose and starting some medications will be needed to help resolve the swelling. Good luck !