While acne may seem like a skin issue for just humans, feline acne isn't just possible — it's actually quite common. Just as in humans, acne tends to occur on feline faces, preferentially affecting the chin and lip margins.
In most cases of cat chin acne, pet parents report the appearance of a "dirty chin" or grungy debris accumulating on the chin. Typically, clustered toward the front of the chin or around the lip margins, acne lesions are often tiny, non-painful and present little more than a cosmetic nuisance. Some cats, however, can be severely afflicted and may even benefit from the services of a veterinary dermatologist. Let's take a closer look at cat acne.
Causes of Acne in Cats
No one knows what exactly causes feline acne, but it's clear that it happens when hair follicles in the chin or around the lips become clogged. Excessive production of sebum (an oily substance produced by the skin's sebaceous glands) may be involved as too much sebum can predispose follicles to getting clogged.
Some proposed associated causes of feline acne include:
- Skin allergies (seasonal or to foods)
- Contact hypersensitivity (typically to plastic)
- Excessive scent marking
- Stress
- Viruses such as calicivirus and herpes virus
- Poor grooming habits
There are also other diseases such as demodicosis (mange), ring worm and other types of allergic reactions that may appear similar to feline acne and should be ruled out by your veterinarian. Acne can affect cats of all breeds. While a genetic predisposition may exist, no direct link has yet demonstrated that this disease is an inherited condition.
Clinical Signs of Feline Acne
Acne in cats isn't always easy to spot. While even mild feline chin acne will readily stand out in cats with white or light-colored fur, it may not be so obvious in cats with darker coats. Normally, acne may appear as little black dots on the chin or lip margins. These comedones (blackheads) can appear bumpy, crusty or just dirty. Fur may be missing in these areas, and the affected skin may be raised and bumpy or swollen and reddened.
In more severely affected cats, the entire chin area or lip margins may be swollen, red and/or missing fur. Instead of tiny black dots, draining pustules over thickened skin are typically evident in these cats. Spots of blood may even be spied on their nearby fur or on objects they choose to rub against. If the acne is severe, these cats may paw at the area or rub vigorously against objects, but most appear unfazed by acne. It is not considered especially itchy or painful.
Cats with more severe forms of feline acne often have other skin issues to contend with. These can include other areas of hairlessness, redness or bumpy crusting. Excessive grooming or obvious itchiness is possible, too. Allergic skin disease is, after all, a major predisposing factor in cases of feline acne.
Tasty Tips
Treating Acne in Cats
If the acne isn't bothering your cat, then treatment may not be necessary. However, even in these cats, simple treatments such as daily cleaning of the affected area with antibacterial wipes (prescribed by your veterinarian) or switching to feeding out of ceramic or metal bowls cleaned daily with soap and water can help. For more significantly affected cats, your veterinarian may recommend additional treatment. Acne might sound like a simple condition, but just as in humans, it's not always easy to treat. Treatment options include both topical and systemic medications. While topical preparations are always preferable due to the lower probability of side effects, systemic medications are sometimes necessary for either behavioral reasons or by medical necessity.
Topical treatments include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications (corticosteroids), antifungal medications and antiseptics along with ministrations like applying warm compresses or surgically lancing and draining. These procedures are typically reserved for larger and deeper lesions. Systemic options include oral or injectable antibiotics, oral antifungal drugs and oral or injectable anti-inflammatory options.
For cats with underlying diseases, particularly those with skin allergies, treatment might remain elusive unless these processes are successfully addressed.
Preventing Feline Acne
As with most difficult-to-treat diseases, prevention is the ideal approach. Here are a few considerations:
- Treat any underlying issues, such as allergies, skin infections or other skin conditions.
- Remove any plastic objects that may come into contact with your cat, especially food bowls.
- Keep all porous objects your cat comes into regular contact with as clean as possible. Wash toys and food bowls regularly.
- Since evidence shows that some cats with acne may not groom as efficiently as others, keeping them clean can be helpful. Brushing, bathing and disinfecting the chin and lip area may be beneficial as well.
As always, speak to your veterinarian about treatment and prevention of feline acne. In some severe cases, your vet will recommend that you seek out the services of a board-certified veterinary dermatologist. These vets are uniquely qualified to assess and treat conditions like persistent acne. If your cat is severely affected and solutions elude you, ask your vet about seeing a credentialed dermatologist. You'll have your feline best friend looking and feeling fine in no time.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken & Rice Medley Cat Food
Delicious roasted chicken and rice in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Tender Chicken Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Savory Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Delicious taste of gourmet chicken in precisely balanced nutrition. Provide a synergistic ingredient blend to help support energy & activity level.
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Indoor Chicken Recipe
Healthy digestion for easy litter box clean-up
Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Savory Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition for indoor cats with the delicious taste of savory minced chicken
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Ocean Fish Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Tender Chicken Dinner
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Savory Entrée Can Variety Pack
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Tuna Dinner cat food
Delectable chunks with tender tuna smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free Salmon & Yellow Peas Recipe cat food
Grain free, easy-to-digest food that is gentle on the stomach. Nourishes skin & promotes lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Duck & Vegetable Entrée Cat Food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Tender Dinner Pouch Variety Pack Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Ocean Fish Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition for indoor cats with the delicious taste of savory minced seafood
Hill's Science Diet Adult Savory Entrée Can Variety Pack Cat Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Stew Cat Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Stew
Supports kitten growth, digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Weight Salmon & Vegetable Canned Cat Food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Dinners Can Variety Pack Cat Food
Delectable chunks with tender chicken smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Tuna Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Poached Salmon & Spinach Medley Cat Food
Delicious poached salmon paired with tender spinach in a mouthwatering sauce
Related articles
Steps to Successfully Introduce a New Kitten to Your Cat
If you're a current cat owner that is thinking about getting a new kitten, you should read our helpful tips for getting cat and kittens acquainted.
Is Milk Actually Good for a Cat?
It is a common misconception that cats should be given milk regularly as a treat.
What Types of Litter, Food & Supplies Are Safe for Kittens?
Learn which types of products and supplies are safest for your kitten, including specific kinds of litter, food, shampoo, carriers, collars and toys.
Changing Cat Food: How to Do It Safely
Cat's nutritional needs change as they age, so it is important to know when to change their food to keep them healthy and active.
How to Make Your Own DIY Cat Scratching Post
Learn how to build an easy, homemade DIY cat scratching post using items around your house! She'll get exercise and you won't get a ruined staircase.
Helping Your Cat Recover from Serious Illness or Accidents
Illnesses, accidents and surgeries are an unfortunate consequence of life, even for cats. Understand how nutrition can play a role in your cat's recovery.
Six Ways to Socialize Your New Cat
Socializing a cat into a new home takes patience and love. Discover these cat socialization tips to help an adopted cat adjust to her family.
Cat Play: How to Keep Your Kitty Engaged
Keep your cat both mentally and physically active with these fun tips for play and exercise even when you're not home.
Walking a Cat: Should You Take Your Kitty For a Stroll?
Wondering if your can take your cat for a walk? Learn how to decide if she's suitable for the outdoors and an effective method for taking her on a stroll.
Is My Cat Pregnant? How to Tell & Tips for Care
Learn how to spot common signs that your cat might be pregnant, as well as care and nutrition tips for her if you find out she is expecting.
Service Cats: Giving Emotional Support to Pet Parents
Read all about service cats, including how these special felines can comfort humans and provide emotional support for a number of medical issues.
The Changing Needs of a Kitten Becoming a Cat
Learn the needs of your aging kitten. It's nutritional and exercise requirements will start to change as it grows from being a kitten into an adult cat.
Foods that are Dangerous or Toxic to Cats
Many human foods are dangerous to cats. Read about 5 of the worst toxic food offenders that can kill your cat - and how much it takes to hurt them.
Recognizing Cat Obesity, Causes and Signs
Feline obesity puts cats at higher risk of several health concerns. Here's how to tell if you have an overweight cat so you can intervene early.
Dealing with a Cat That's a Picky Eater
Cats are notoriously picky eaters, but there are ways you can encourage her to eat her food. Discover some tips for getting her past her picky habits.
Using Positive Reinforcement when Training Your Kitten
Learn how positive reinforcements can reward your kitten for good behavior while their still young to set them up for success when they get older.
How to Introduce a New Cat to Your Current Pets
Read about how to introduce a new cat into your household of current pets to help reduce stress and make sure they all get along well.
Fun DIY Beds for Your Cat
Learn how to create four different DIY cat beds that will provide your furry friend with a cozy space of her own & won't break your bank!
Male Cat Urinary Blockages: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
While male cat urinary blockages are common, they can be life-threatening. Learn how to spot symptoms and info on prevention, treatments & stress factors.
Can Cats See TV?
Do cats actually watch TV when they're chilling out on the couch with you? Learn more about how cats engage with and react to electronic screens.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.