What is feline acne? Sebaceous glands are found in the skin and are connected to a hair follicle. These glands secrete a substance called sebum. Sebum lubricates the skin and coat and prevents the skin and hair coat from drying out. When the sebaceous glands become blocked with sebaceous material it forms comedones or blackheads; this is what is commonly called feline acne. Feline acne can present in a very mild form or be quite severe. The severe cases will often have a secondary bacterial infection and the chin will become swollen with open sores and puss.
What are the signs or symptoms of feline acne? There are multiple blackheads on the chin of cats with feline acne. These blackheads make them look like they have a dirty chin. In more moderate cases the blackheads can abscess and the chin will feel crusty. Severe cases of feline acne involve hair loss, swelling, bleeding, and itchy skin. The itchiness may prompt the cat to scratch the already inflamed skin causing trauma and opening the area to a secondary bacterial infection. Feline acne can also develop on the lips of some cats.
Persians can be afflicted with a more serious form of feline acne that affects the face and skin folds. This condition is known as idiopathic Persian facial dermatitis or dirty face and can be difficult to control or manage.
What causes feline acne? The exact cause of feline acne is not known but there are several possibilities that seem to play a part in the development of this pesky skin condition.
- Plastic food and water bowls – Plastic bowls harbor bacteria which can be transferred to the cats chin. Some cats are allergic to the plastic or dyes used in the bowls. A better choice is metal or ceramic bowls; these are not as porous as plastic. The bowls, regardless of the material, should be washed daily.
- Stress
- Poor hygiene and grooming
- Suppressed immune system
- Presence of other diseases and/or skin conditions
- Hair follicles not working properly
How do I treat feline acne? The treatment of feline acne depends on the severity of the skin condition.
- Mild cases: Mild cases of feline acne can be treated topically with antiseborrheic shampoos. These shampoos contain benzoyle peroxide and are used to breakdown the excess oils in the skin. In very minor cases acne treatment pads can be used to cleanse the area. These pad are available at any drug store. Do not use acne treatment pads if the skin is broken or severely inflamed.
- Moderate to severe cases – Many cases of feline acne require the hair on the chin to be shaved. This is done so that the area can be more throughly cleaned and treated. Oral antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs are also used with topical medications to fully eradicate the infection.
Other skin conditions might be confused for feline acne; consult your veterinarian before beginning treatment.
References: Cat World.com, Feline Acne
Holly Nash, DVM, MS, Pet Education.com, Feline Acne
fab.com, Feline Acne and Stud Tail
