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Ask the Veterinarian/Skin lesions/sores on cat

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Expert: - 1/14/2011


Question

Jack's belly
My daughter's cat, Jack is aprox 3 years old, altered male, indoor/outdoor cat. He has developed sores on his belly and now has some on his leg. When he licks them, he opens them and looses the hair around them. There is no puss, no yellow or discolored discharge. They feel rough and similar to scabs. His vet can not see him until Monday. He is eating, drinking and playing normally, and does not seem to be in pain (the open sores are of course tender, but his day to day activities are not affected) We have 3 other cats who have no skin problems at all. I suspect that it may be an allergy of some kind, is there anything I can do for him until his vet appointment? Do you think this could be an allergy or something entirely different? Any help is greatly appreciated. Thank you so much.

Answer
Many cats with allergies can benefit from an over the counter antihistamine called chlorpheniramine.  The dose is 2 mg twice daily.  If it is an allergy or an eosinophilic plaque, your vet may decide to use a steroid type drug or a newer treatment called Atopica.
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Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf

Expertise

Dermatology and ear diseases of dogs and cats

Experience

I am the author of "Small Animal Ear Diseases; An Illustrated Guide" published by W.B. Saunders. I have over 25 years of clinical experience with a special interest in dermatologic conditions and ear diseases.

Organizations
American Academy of Veterinary Dermatology

Publications
Veterinary Forum
Veterinary Medicine
Waltham Focus

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