If you’ve seen some red bumps or blackheads on your cat’s face, then it’s a case of cat acne. These are typically common along the cat’s chin area. When these cat acne get too many, it can be too painful and irritating. Once some appear, it’s best to help right away.
In this blog, we’ll break down everything there is to know about cat acne and how to treat it.
What Is Cat Acne?
Cat acne usually appears as small black dots, tiny blackheads, or red bumps. They form when the cat’s hair follicles get clogged with excess oils, dead skin cells, or bacteria. In many cases, these pimples can easily get out of hand and lead to infections.
What Causes Cat Acne?
Cats can get acne through several factors, including:
Overproduction of Keratin and Sebum
One of the primary causes of cat acne is the overproduction of keratin and sebum. Keratin and sebum both protect the skin, each in different ways. However, too much of each can clog the hair follicles. Combine them with other factors like dead skin cells, and pimples can easily form.
In severe cases, these can cause pustules.
Skin Problems
If your cat is experiencing a few skin issues, then the risk of feline acne is high. Allergies, mange, and autoimmune disorders can also increase the chances of your cat getting acne.
Poor Grooming Habits
While cats are natural groomers, some may struggle to clean certain areas, like the chin. Plus, overweight, ill, and old cats may have difficulty grooming, which means they’ll be more prone to clogged pores and the development of pimples.
Conversely, excessive grooming can also be counterproductive. This is a common sight for stressed and anxious cats.
Stress and Hormonal Changes
Like in humans, stress can contribute to skin problems in cats. Stressed cats can trigger the release of hormones that will increase sebum production. Because of this, they have an increased risk of clogged pores and feline acne.
Common situations include moving to a new home, meeting new pets, and encountering strange things.
Weakened Immune System
Cats with a compromised immune system are susceptible to plenty of issues, including feline acne. This can be due to allergic reactions, chronic diseases, or specific infections. Plus, the development of cat acne along with a weakened immune system can increase the risk of infections.
Plastic Food and Water Bowls
Your cat’s environment can also be a factor. The grooves on food and water bowls can graze your cat’s chin, causing acne. Plus, the potential bacteria that reside on unclean plastic bowls can also be a cause.
Is Cat Acne Contagious?
No, cat acne is not contagious and cannot spread to other cats. It’s due to clogged hair follicles that are mostly caused by excess oil and keratin, allergies, stress, poor grooming habits, and unclean bowls.
Each case develops individually, so one case of cat acne won’t trigger it in another.
What Are the Signs of Cat Acne?
Cat acne can look like a minor issue, but its ability to cause discomfort is nothing to be underestimated. To help you identify the signs of cat acne, here’s a quick guide:
Blackheads. The earliest and most recognizable sign of cat acne is blackheads, also called open comedones. These look like black, dirt-like spots. Blackheads may stay relatively small and unnoticeable, but they can worsen.
Redness and Swelling. The affected skin can also become red and inflamed. You might notice several red bumps, which are cat chin acne.
Whiteheads. While similar to blackheads, whiteheads are closed pores that remain white. This means that the surface of the skin has not ruptured.
Pustules. When bacteria infect blackheads, pustules can form. This is a larger bump filled with pus and liquid.
Crusts and Scabs. When pustules or whiteheads rupture, they can leave behind open sores that eventually scab or crust. This can appear flaky or scaly. In some cases, these may fall off and leave sensitive skin underneath them.
Hair Loss. Cat acne can lead to noticeable hair loss in the areas affected. As time passes by, the constant inflammation and your cat’s scratching will lead to damage. This results in thinning fur and small bald patches around the chin.
Pain and Discomfort. The whiteheads, blackheads, pustules, and scabs can all contribute to irritation and discomfort, especially when they're scratched. Because of these, cats may show negative behaviors like hiding and avoiding contact.
How Do Vets Diagnose the Cause of Cat Acne?
Our vets will start with a physical exam, particularly on the cat's chin, because it's a common spot for cat acne. We follow it up with a few specialized tests.
Skin Scraping or Cytology. These tests are used to identify parasitic mites or specific cells that point to an infection. The samples will be examined under a microscope.
Bacterial or Fungal Culture. This may help us determine specific pathogens involved and the medication needed.
Skin Biopsy. If lesions are unusual, we may need to collect a sample of the skin for microscopic examination.
Blood and Urine Tests. These laboratory tests will be used to check our cat's health and look for signs of infections.
How to Treat Cat Acne?
Cat acne treatment will need medications and lifestyle changes. At the clinic, here's what we'll provide:
Topical Treatments
In mild to moderate cases of cat acne, we can provide antibacterial or anti-seborrheic wipes to remove excess oils and prevent blockages. Along with these, we'll prescribe antibiotic, antifungal, or antiseptic ointments depending on your cat's situation.
Next, our vets will also recommend the most appropriate shampoos you can use for your cat's acne.
Oral Medications
In cases where cat acne has progressed or if a severe bacterial infection develops, oral medications may be necessary. Oral antibiotics are helpful in treating infections, aiding in clearing inflamed pustules, and preventing the spread of bacteria.
For more severe inflammation, corticosteroids might be prescribed. These medications help reduce swelling and irritation, promoting faster healing. Since these treatments can have side effects when it comes to cat acne, usage will depend on your cat’s condition.
Draining
In some cases, our vets will need to drain your cat’s acne if they have become too large and infected. This is often done when other treatments are not responding.
Cat Acne Treatment at Home
For cats with mild acne, simple at-home care can make a significant difference. One effective method is using warm compresses. Use a warm and damp cloth on your cat’s acne. Doing this regularly with a clean cloth every time can open up the pores.
Another good idea to remove your cat’s acne is to replace its plastic bowls with ceramic or stainless steel bowls. Plus, we recommend cleaning these with hot water and soap regularly.
How to Prevent Cat Acne
Even if it's fairly simple to treat cat acne, prevention is always better. Follow these simple tips:
Clean Your Cat’s Home
Your cat’s home can be a hotspot for allergens and irritants. Make sure to regularly clean your cat’s bedding, toys, and pillows. Always clean their food and water bowls as these are frequently used. Avoid using plastic ones.
Groom Your Cat
Cats need regular brushing at home to remove dirt, loose hair, and dead skin that accumulate on the body. You can also use vet-approved wipes to remove excess oils. By doing so, you can prevent the hair follicles from easily clogging up. Plus, it’s good to have your cat professionally groomed.
Reduce Stress at Home
Stress can cause skin conditions, including acne. Make sure your cat’s comfortable at home, especially when changes happen. Providing your cat with enrichment, like interactive toys and scratching posts, as well as quiet, safe spaces, promotes relaxation and reduces stress-related flare-ups.
“Protect your cat from acne and they’ll stay happy.”
- Dr. Paulina Czerska
Final Thoughts
Cat acne may seem like a small issue, but it’s one that can bring a lot of pain and discomfort. Staying one step ahead is a surefire way to treat it immediately and prevent it from happening again. With our help, your cat can stay healthy and acne-free.
Share
