Question:
My 2-year-old female tabby has had ulcers on her lips -- twice. They bled the first time. This occurs every couple of months. My vet doesn't know what causes this, but he says that yellow cats are prone to it. It takes her a week to get back to her normal self.
R.A.S., Maysville, WVa Sep 27, 2010
Answer:
The most common cause of lip ulcers in cats is a herpes-virus infection (not transmissible to humans). Secondary bacterial infection and chronic inflammation can set in, leading to what is commonly called a "rodent ulcer." Eating and drinking from plastic containers may aggravate this condition, along with certain food allergies and contaminants in municipal tap water. Applying aloe-vera gel to the lips four to six times a day (ideally containing calendula herb) can help alleviate this condition, along with a wholesome diet, details of which you will find at www.feline-nutrition.org.
INHERITED DISORDERS IN PEDIGREE DOGS. A review of inherited disorders in purebred dogs published in the British Veterinary Journal (2010, Vol. 183: 39-45) will serve as a consumer alert and a clear appeal to breeders to be more vigilant in weeding out these problems that can mean a life of suffering and much expense. In a review of the top 50 breeds registered with the U.K. Kennel Club, a total of 312 inherited disorders were identified, the German shepherd having the most (58). Disorders affecting the largest number of breeds were hypothyroidism (43 breeds), hereditary adult-onset cataracts (38 breeds) and progressive retinal atrophy (35 breeds). For an earlier review by the American Association of Veterinarians for Animal Rights, check my website at www.twobitdog.com/DrFox.
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