Author TB Thompson DVM has been a licensed, practicing veterinarian since 2000.
Tiger was a neighborhood cat who was brought to our veterinary clinic with a swollen, red upper lip and strips of sores on his legs.
I recognized potential symptoms of eosinophilic granuloma complex (EGC). EGC is a skin condition often linked to allergies in cats. (1)
Tiger had several challenges that put him at risk for EGC. For one thing, he lived outdoors with more exposure to fleas and mosquitos. His diet was also less than ideal since he was fed by several people and often ate low-quality cat food.
Indoor cats can also develop EGC. Let’s talk more about this unusual skin problem in cats. I’ll give you some tips on treatment and avoiding recurrence of lesions.
KEY POINTS
- Eosinophilic granuloma complex in cats causes hairless, inflamed skin lesions and is often related to allergies.
- EGC usually responds to treatment using steroids and antibiotics.
- Long-term control of EGC in cats requires addressing underlying allergies.
What Is EGC?
Eosinophilic Granuloma Complex (EGC) is a skin disease in cats. Other names for this problem include rodent ulcer and indolent ulcer.
It happens when white blood cells called eosinophils gather in the skin. These special cells try to fight off foreign invaders like fleas and mosquitos. Sometimes they overreact and lead to allergies.
The inflammation caused by eosinophils leads to the formation of skin bumps and sores. They often occur on a cat’s face, feet, legs, belly or back.
EGC Symptoms Checklist
EGC causes skin changes in cats.
- Losing fur in patches.
- Scratching a lot (itching).
- Areas where the skin looks raised or lumpy.
- Red skin.
- Sores in a linear pattern, especially on the lips, chin, feet, legs, or body.
- Drooling from sores in the mouth.
- Limping from sores on the feet.
- Scabs or open sores.
- Orange-ish or yellowish-colored skin sores.
Remember, other problems besides EGC can cause very similar lesions. It’s best to get your cat checked by a vet if you notice these symptoms.
Causes of EGC
Even though the term “rodent ulcer” is used, it is not related in any way to rodents! EGC in cats is often due to an allergic reaction. Suspected triggers include
- Contact with materials like plastic, metal, or wool.
- Reactions to bacteria and viruses.
- Sensitivity to pollen and other environmental allergens.
- Flea and mosquito bites, possibly Demodex mites.
- Certain food ingredients.
Experts aren’t sure of all the reasons why cats get EGC. Genetics might play a part too. The important thing to know is any cat can get EGC, no matter their age, sex, or breed.
[Video]
The story of Winston the cat and how his owner helps him with his EGC problems.
Diagnosing EGC
To diagnose EGC in cats, vets mainly use two tests:
- Cytology: This test checks skin cells for signs of inflammation. A vet might use a needle or adhesive tape to collect cells from the affected area. These cells are then examined under a microscope.
- Biopsy: This is a more accurate method where a small piece of skin tissue is taken and checked by a pathologist. It’s the best way to confirm EGC but might require your cat to be sedated.
These tests help your veterinarian determine if your cat has EGC or another disease.
Treatment Options
When treating EGC in cats, it’s all about finding and treating the main cause, which is often allergies. This might mean better flea control or changing what your cat eats.
There are different ways to treat EGC:
| Treatment Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Topical Medication | Ointments, sprays and creams that contain steroids and antibiotics applied onto the lesions. It may be effective in the short term but does not solve underlying allergies. |
| Immune-Modulating Drugs | Steroids like prednisone and immunosuppressive meds like cyclosporine decrease inflammation and allergic skin reactions. |
| Antibiotics | Many EGC lesions have secondary bacterial infections. Oral antibiotics such as amoxi-clav and clindamycin are often prescribed. |
Some cat owners are tempted to use symptomatic treatment such as long-acting steroid injections to control their cat’s EGC outbreaks. While this can work, you should be aware of the possible side effects of long-term steroid use.
It’s often worthwhile to have a consultation with a board-certified veterinary dermatologist when treating cats with allergic skin diseases. They may recommend allergy testing and desensitization as a long-term strategy.
More from NPHQ Veterinarian
Learn more about swollen lips in cats…
3 Ways to Help Your Cat with EGC
First, an accurate diagnosis is needed. Once you’re sure your cat’s skin issues are caused by EGC, work with your vet to try various control strategies.
| Strategy | What You Can Do | Helpful Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Parasite Allergies | Keep your cat indoors and practice strict flea control including treating your home | There are no safe, effective mosquito repellents for cats at this time. |
| Environmental Allergies | Test for allergies and use desensitization therapy. Keep your cat indoors. | Keep windows closed and use air purifier machines during your cat’s allergy season. |
| Food Allergies | Do a food allergy trial with the help of your vet. Feed your cat prescription hypoallergenic cat food. | Over-the-counter food cannot be used for food allergy trials due to cross-contamination of proteins. |
FAQs
What are some home remedies for EGC?
Home remedies may soothe EGC sores but are not an effective long-term treatment. You can clean the skin lesions using mild soap and water. Practice strict flea control and avoid your cat being exposed to mosquitos.
Can EGC go away on its own?
Some EGC sores might improve without treatment, but it’s not guaranteed. (2) Veterinary care is often needed for effective and lasting relief.
Will my cat get over EGC?
With proper treatment, most cats can recover from EGC symptoms. Ongoing or repeated treatment is often needed to keep it in check.
Is EGC contagious?
No, EGC is not contagious to other animals or humans. It’s an internal reaction of the cat’s immune system and is not spread through contact.
