Pet of the Month for December goes to this beautiful boy Anakin!
Anakin presented with skin lesions all over his body that looked red and infected. He unfortunately did not respond well to the consultation treatment. It was then decided to proceed with a biopsy to examine the cells and a more definitive diagnosis.
The results confirmed that he has a skin condition called "eosinophilic granuloma complex”.
In most cases, this is due to an allergic hypersensitivity where the body’s immune cells (eosinophils) inappropriately release inflammatory chemicals which result in skin lesions. They are most often allergic reactions to fleas or mosquito bites, allergy-inducing food or pollen but in some cats the cause can be unknown.
Once these inflammatory signals are released, 3 main forms of skin lesions can develop:
- Eosinophilic granulomas which are most commonly diagnosed. These granulomas typically appear are bumps throughout the body, which can vary in size and itchiness causing the cat to lick and scratch the affected areas.
- Eosinophilic ulcers typically develop on the lips –especially the upper lip. These lesions ulcerate from the constant licking due to allergy.
- Eosinophilic plaques are less common and appear as hives throughout the body but typically on the abdomen and thighs.
Anakin's is being treated with immunosuppressives medications and he also benefited from a hypoallergenic diet, he is now getting back to his normal self and is having regular check ins with our Vets to see his progress.
We would like to thank Anakin’s family for taking the best care of him!