Signs & Symptoms of Feline Ulcers

Feline ulcers can affect the upper respiratory system, eyes, gastrointestinal tract, musculoskeletal system, skin and other major organs. An ulcer-related infection can develop quite suddenly in felines. Many infected cats may appear healthy and alert and have no obvious symptoms at first. However, as the ulcer develops, a mild secondary infection may occur. Common symptoms for feline ulcers can range from loss of appetite, lethargy and fever, to labored breathing and pus-filled sores on affected areas.

  1. Lip and Mouth Ulcers

    • A feline suffering from a lip or mouth ulcer can begin to show signs of disinterest in food, as eating may irritate the sore. Other symptoms can include excessive licking of the area, and an inflamed or puffy lip. At times, white, fibrous material develops on the lip, tongue or mouth region. The cat may experience vomiting and diarrhea, which can cause weight loss as the ulcer spreads. The region will be tender and the cat may use its paw to cover it from time to time.

    Skin Ulcers

    • Skin ulcers in felines affect the surface layers. A cat with a skin ulcer is often protective of the region because it can be quite painful. Symptoms can depend on underlying causes and may include inflammation with redness and swelling; lesions on pressure points at the bone; dried or moist discharge; and depigmentation.

    Stomach Ulcers

    • Cats with stomach ulcers may have pronounced symptoms such as lack of appetite, weight loss, vomiting, curdled blood and lethargy. As the abdomen may be painful, the cat may shrink from being touched in that region. Feces can also be dark or black, due to the presence of blood.

    Eye Ulcers

    • Eye ulcers in felines can include mild conjunctivitis to severe corneal perforation. Signs and symptoms may be similar to upper respiratory infections with sneezing, coughing and a runny nose. There may also be a discharge, discomfort and redness. The cat may appear tired and disinterested in its food, depending on how much pain is present. Keratitis with corneal inflammation may also cause excessive tearing. The cat's vision may be affected, and it may appear to have trouble seeing or appear wobbly for no apparent reason.

    Autoimmune Diseases

    • Various autoimmune diseases in felines include ulcer conditions, such as Pemphigus Complex which is a group of rare skin diseases in cats. Pemphigus vulgaris produces deep ulcer lesions in the mouth and claw folds, groin, head, feet and armpits. Signs can include pustules and blisters on the top layer of the skin. The lesions may ooze liquid. The cat may scratch the area or show signs of trying to shield it and be uninterested in being petted near the area.