Question:
Several weeks ago, I read one of your articles concerning a dog's skin problem that you called "collie nose." I have a cat with a similar problem, except it affects one of his front legs, near the paw. The affected area is about one-inch long and maybe a half-inch wide. The fur is off, and he constantly licks it. I have tried peroxide, Neosporin, Vaseline and even medicated powder. He immediately licks everything off. Do you have a solution as to how to cure this?
C.S., Mount Pleasant, SC Dec 06, 2009
Answer:
Your cat's skin disorder is most likely an eosinophilic granuloma, a cellular reaction to allergens in the cat's diet or on the body as bites from fleas or other insects. Check first for fleas, then with a veterinarian, because your home treatments are not working and delay could simply make things worse.
Treatment with oral steroids and doxycycline often helps, but the condition tends to recur and spread if the trigger factors are not identified. For starters, I would eliminate all cereals, dairy products and synthetic "natural flavorings" (MSG) common in many dry cat foods that can cause various health problems. Cats can improve dramatically with changes in diet.
Up to a teaspoon of good-quality fish oil (Nordic Naturals) daily in your cat's food may also help.
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