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The specific causes of feline acne are not known. Cats with weakened immune systems are more susceptible, but otherwise healthy male and female cats of all ages may be affected.

There are a number of factors that may contribute to the development of the disease, including poor grooming habits, abnormal sebum production, and stress.

In affected cats, lesions vary in severity, but are typically mild and asymptomatic. Pain and/or itching are not common unless there is a secondary bacterial skin infection. Lesions usually initially present at about 1 year of age, and remain cyclic for the life of the cat.

Depending upon the severity of the symptoms, and whether or not any secondary conditions exist, treatment may or may not be required. Your veterinarian will have to make this determination.

Feline acne symptoms and signs — Acne in cats may include lesions on the chin and lower lip, as well as swelling of the chin and around the mouth. Your cat may display dark brown comedones or crusted reddish papules.

Secondary bacterial infections may be present, and you may see swelling or drainage of the lesions. In these cases, both topical and oral antibiotics may be prescribed.

It’s possible to mistake bacterial skin infections for acne, but appearances may be deceiving. Sometimes ringworm or yeast infections may be mistaken for acne as well.

Treatment of feline acne — Treatment is often not necessary, except in more severe cases. In fact, skin lesions can be made worse by overtreatment.

Your veterinarian may recommend topical therapy of some kind to help remove the comedones (blackheads). Depending upon the severity, more aggressive treatment may be recommended.

Excess skin may be removed from the lesion area to aid in cleaning, as well as the application of topical medications. In order to prevent infection and injury to your cat, only your veterinarian should perform this procedure.

Treatment may include the use of antiseptics, such as Listerine or alcohol. Antiseborrheic shampoos may help as well. Some of these contain salicylic acid, which is a common component of human acne treatment formulas.

It may be effective to use topical benzoyl peroxide solutions in gel or shampoo form. Benzoyl peroxide preparations made for small animals are half the strength of those made for humans.

You should know that even the milder animal formula benzoyl peroxide treatments may be irritating to your cat’s skin when used over time. In any case, never use a preparation made for humans on your cat unless instructed to do so by your veterinarian.

Cats with acne who have weakened immune systems may receive steroid therapy. Additional supplements, including off-label drugs, may be used as well.

Tags: Pets

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