Don’t let the name fool you — rodent ulcer, eosinophilic granuloma complex (EGC), actually has nothing to do with rodents. Rather, it’s the most common feline inflammatory disorder, which produces swelling and lesions on a cat’s mouth area.
“The cause of rodent ulcers is not fully understood, but it’s obviously related to the immune system,” says holistic veterinarian Donn Griffith of Ohio Holistic Veterinary Service in Columbus. Typically, allergies trigger the inflammation in a hypersensitive immune system.
Although conventional treatments such as steroid injections provide immediate relief from inflammation, the overuse of steroids can lead to serious health conditions including diabetes and pancreatitis.
“Conventional treatments have potential side effects, so alternative therapies can be very helpful,” Griffith says.
**Get the October 2007 issue of CAT FANCY to read the full article.**