Feline Rodent Ulcer Picture

This is a well produced picture of a feline rodent ulcer. Incidentally, rodent ulcers have "no direct connection" with rodents¹. Is there any connection? I don't know. Another name for them is eosinophilic ulcer or indolent ulcer. Eosinophils are white blood cells that are part of the immune system. It gives a clue as the origin of the ulcer - a possible allergic reaction or immune system problem. They only occur on cats and the cause is unclear.

This photo has been used with permission for teaching/educational purposes at this website and it was created by Cuyahoga Falls Veterinary Clinic.  Thanks for the license to publish it here. Please ask the clinic if you'd like to use it. Thank you.

Feline rodent ulcer - photo copyright Cuyahoga Falls Veterinary Clinic

This ulcer would appear to be in the classic position, on the upper lip just off-center position. Sometimes they occur on the lower lip or the back of the jaw or tongue.

Feline rodent ulcers may be caused in part by dental infection, diet, insects, parasites (flea?) or environmental substances.  A compromised immune system may be a cause as cats tested positive for the feline leukemia virus have been found to have rodent ulcers.

You'll need a vet to treat a feline rodent ulcer. Apparently, cortisone and antibiotics are the treatment of choice. There are other treatments.

Note: 1. Cat Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook page 233, third edition.

Associated: Most common cat illnesses.