Feline Acne

Some cats have a tendency to get bacterial infections (acne) on the chin. There are numerous oil glands in this area and oil and dirt may accumulate, causing black heads and inflammation around the hair follicles and oil glands. This can progress, if not treated, to a deep skin infection.

The cause of feline acne is not known. Cleanliness may be a factor, because lazy chin cleaners seem to have more infections. A genetic predisposition is probably involved as well, because the condition is seen frequently in litter mates and their parents.

Feline Acne Treatment

Wash daily with Phisohex or Phisodermand rinse thoroughly. A human acne medication containing benzoyl peroxide, such as Oxy-5, seems to work well, too, but avoid contact with the eyes or mouth. Apply once daily for three days only. If undue skin irritation, flaking, or dryness develops, discontinue using the ointment and consult your veterinarian. These products remove the excess oil, cleanse the skin surface, and decrease the bacteria on the skin. If they are not available, gently apply rubbing alcohol to the chin and don't rinse it off.

Feline acne, if treated early, can heal in a week or two. Unfortunately, the condition recurs, but cleaning the chin daily might prevent recurrences. If the chin infection is severe or does not respond to home treatment, see your veterinarian. Occasionally, a ringworm lesion or demodex mite infection may be found on the chin.

Your veterinarian will prescribe antibiotics (for two or three weeks in some cases) and will probably be proud of you for starting the cleansing program just described and will encourage you to continue. A scraping for demodex mites and a bacterial and fungus culture will be done in unresponsive cases.

Causes of Feline Acne

• The most common reason behind the development of feline acne is the plastic bowls or water containers in which the food and water is offered to the pet cat. The plastic bowls have a porous texture that forms a congenial place for the growth of bacteria. Some cats are also allergic towards the plastic material and the dye that has been use to decorate the bowl. Usage of the unwashed bowls also lead to the formation of the acne especially in the chin area.
• Just like humans cats may also develop acne due to excessive stress.
• Improper maintenance of cat may also cause the development of acne. Acne grows in skin surfaces that are unclean and unhygienic.
• If repeated development of acne is also caused due to suppressed immune system. Your cat might get acne if it is suffering from immune degrading diseases like diabetes.
• Poor health and presence of other internal diseases may also lead to feline acne.
• Feline acne may also develop due o the infection of the hair follicles of the fur. So, you are recommended to look after the proper grooming of your pet as well.

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