Hi Melanie,

Thanks for your question. I’m sorry to hear about this.

I’m sorry to say that a squamous cell carcinoma in cats like this is a very serious disease. No doubt your veterinarian has informed you of this and the lack of good options that exist to treat it. This disease has a very poor prognosis. I would recommend that you consult a veterinary oncologist to discuss treatment options and the expected progression that this may take.

As for your question, there are limited options I’m afraid. This tissue is not healthy and it will have difficulty healing. While the tissue is exposed it will be prone to infection which will further impede healing and cause discomfort. I really can’t think of something beyond what you are currently doing which is to apply an antibacterial cream to prevent secondary infection of the tissue. It’s possible to consider a steroid cream to reduce inflammation but this has contraindications as well. It can reduce immune system response and also prevent epithelialization or skin generation over the area. Another potential treatment is surgically removing the diseased tissue but given the area, I would recommend you review this possibility with a surgeon.

As for the gallbladder and liver, I would recommend you assess this with blood work and live function testing, along with imaging. It’s possible that the lesion could have spread to these locations or a concurrent condition is going on. I wouldn’t rule out surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy until that is assessed and your working with a veterinary oncologist.

Sorry I can’t be more helpful but you have a significant challenge on your hands. I wish you the best and good luck.

Dr. Clayton Greenway