Cat Sores

If you spot sores or lesions on your pet cat, it would be best to take your cat to a vet for a thorough checkup. This skin problem could be caused by a wide range of reasons which is why it is essential to ascertain the underlying cause. Since the risk of secondary bacterial infections in high, affected cats may have to be given antibiotics to lower the risk of a bacterial infection. Some infections may also be contagious requiring complete sensitization of the environment as well as other preventive measures.

Sores on Neck
Sores on your cat could be a sign of a ringworm infection. Symptoms include scratching the neck, that can lead to bald patches with redness around the bald area and you may observe changes in the cat's behavior as well, like increased irritability. Ringworm is caused by microscopic parasitic fungi, also called dermatophytes, which live on dead skin cells, hair and claws. Being contagious, the fungi can be contracted either by direct exposure, or by coming in contact with exposed environment. Kittens who are less than one year old, as well as very old cats are vulnerable towards infection from ringworm diseases as they lack the immunity to counter such infections. Other causes include flea infestation and tick bites. These bites cause itching and irritation in cats. Lesions due to tick bites may cause secondary bacterial infection in cats. Treatment of ringworm infected cats includes using antifungal drugs. Fleas and tick infestation can be cured by the usage of medicated shampoos.

Sores on Chin
Often known as 'feline acne' or 'chin acne', this can be caused by food allergies and allergies to plastic dishes. The acne appear as black marks, further developing into red itchy bumps with symptoms indicating itchy irritant skin. Treatment of chin acne includes repeated cleaning with antibiotics or antifungal soaps. Other treatment for sores on the chin are application of antibiotic ointment and oral medication. It is advisable to bring the cat to the veterinarian at the very first signs of acne.

Sore on Lips
Eosinophilic ulcer and linear granulomas could cause also cause sores in cats. The former is also called rodent ulcer, and is seen as small sores on the upper lip. The middle of the sore resembles an ulcerated appearance. If these lesions are not treated in time, can increase in its size and extend to the entire upper lip. It is believed that continual licking of these ulcers enlarges their size and thereby, results in deeper infection. Linear granulomas are occasionally seen on lips, tongue and hard palate areas. These are elongated lesions that are reddish-yellow in color. Hair loss in cats is commonly seen in linear granulomas, but these sores do not itch at all. Treatment for these skin diseases include injections with anti-inflammatory drugs. Injections are given every two weeks until the sore completely subsides. Some cases are treated with hormone treatments which can have serious side effects. This hormonal treatment is done only under the strict guidance of a veterinarian.

It is your responsibility as a pet owner to take notice of cat sores or any other symptoms that may be indicative of any disease. You should also pay attention to your cat's diet. Do make use of methods of flea and tick control.