A Veterinarian Explains the Causes and Treatments of Feline Acne

Try touching your beloved cat’s chin. Are there any black specks or bumps?

This symptom is cat acne, officially known as "feline acne."

We will explain the causes and countermeasures for cat acne.

Why do cats get acne?

Cat acne is caused by inflammation that occurs when secretions from the sebaceous glands become clogged. It often appears on the chin because the chin has abundant sebaceous gland secretions and is difficult for cats to groom, making it prone to acne. It can also appear around the lips in addition to the chin.

Other possible causes for clogged sebaceous glands include high-fat diets, individual constitution, stress, unsuitable dish materials, and allergies.

Symptoms of cat acne

Acne symptoms are classified from mild to severe.

Mild

Sebum becomes entangled in the fur, appearing as black sand-like particles. At this stage, there is no itchiness.

It may improve with home care.

Moderate

As the condition worsens, hair loss occurs and the skin becomes red. Itchiness develops, causing the cat to frequently scratch with its paws or rub its chin against furniture.

This condition cannot be managed with home care alone. We recommend consulting a veterinarian.

Severe

Bacterial infection occurs, the affected area becomes inflamed, and pus emerges. There is also pain, so the cat may not allow its chin to be touched.

As antibiotics and other treatments may be necessary, it is essential to receive appropriate treatment at a veterinary clinic.

How to remove cat acne? How to deal with cat acne

Mild acne can be improved with home care. Also, once it occurs, there is a high possibility of recurrence, so daily care can prevent recurrence.

Wipe the chin

If the area around the chin is dirty, it can lead to clogged sebaceous glands. It's particularly prone to getting dirty after meals, so make sure to clean it. Mild acne may even improve. Moisten a clean towel with tap water and gently wipe away the dirt. Warming the towel slightly can also be effective. Rubbing too hard can be counterproductive. If your cat resists, it might be in pain. Avoid forcing it.

Also, human disinfectants are too irritating for a cat's skin, so absolutely do not use them.

Grooming

Cat acne is thought to be caused by clogged sebaceous glands due to insufficient grooming. The chin is not only a difficult area for cats to groom themselves, but also an area where they only allow grooming by someone they trust. Therefore, some cats may dislike having their chin touched suddenly. In such cases, it is necessary to gradually accustom them to having their chin touched.

A toothbrush can be used for facial grooming. Many cats enjoy it because the toothbrush feels similar to their tongue. When your cat is calm, gently stroke its face with a toothbrush. As they get used to it, they will allow you to groom their chin without resistance.

Be careful not to force it or apply too much pressure, as this can be counterproductive.

Toothbrush grooming is for cats without acne. If your cat currently has acne, it may worsen the inflammation, so only wipe it with a towel.

Change the food bowl

If the old plastic bowl is scratched, bacteria can breed in those scratches. Also, unsuitable materials can cause inflammation.

Try changing to a new food bowl or switching to ceramic or glass.

Change the food

If the food itself contains allergens or is high in fat, it can cause acne. It might be a good idea to try changing the food.

If you are unsure about changing food, consult your veterinarian. They can suggest low-fat diets or hypoallergenic foods.

Consult a veterinarian

If the condition is mild with black speckles, it may not be necessary to visit a veterinarian. However, moderate to severe acne with inflammation or infected wounds requires veterinary treatment. Furthermore, using human disinfectants or squeezing the acne can actually worsen the inflammation. Avoid treating acne on your own.

At the veterinary clinic, disinfectants and antibiotics appropriate for cats will be prescribed. In some cases, dietary therapy may be necessary for cats with food allergies or a constitutional tendency to produce excessive sebum. They can also provide guidance on how to switch foods and feeding amounts, so visit the vet without delay.

In rare cases, what was thought to be acne could be a tumor. Cat acne causes inflammation and pus but does not grow large. If it does grow large, it is likely not acne, so seek veterinary attention immediately if you notice it.

Summary

Cat acne is caused by clogged sebaceous glands. Many cats who develop it will experience recurring episodes. Since genetics and other factors can be involved, if it recurs frequently, consult your veterinarian.

By grooming your cat in areas they can't reach, you can also strengthen your bond. Do it to an extent that your cat doesn't dislike it, and help prevent acne from forming.