FELINE ACNE

Causes

• Cats have sebaceous glands which secrete oils.
• The pores and hair follicles near the glands get clogged.
• Black sebaceous material in the pores form comedones.
• The pores and follicles can get infected, irritated, and swollen.
• It is a common skin disorder and can affect any age, sex, or breed.

CAUSES

• Stress triggers a release in hormones.
• Plastic food bowls can trap bacteria and create a reaction
• Poor grooming
• Over active sebaceous glands.

SYMPTOMS

• Generally occurs on the chin and/or lip.
• Looks like black dirt that won't wash off.
• Red swollen pores
• Black clogged pores

TREATMENT

• Physical examination and appearance of comedones.
• Skin scrapings and bacterial culture may be needed.
• Must remove excess sebum.
• Antibacterial scrub (prescription)
• Benzoyl peroxide shampoo (prescription)

TREATMENT

• Corticosteroids (prescription)
• Antibiotics - oral or topical (prescription)
• Treatment may be lifelong.
• Never treat your cat at home
• Never use acne medication meant for humans.

PREVENTION

• Switching bowls to glass, metal, ceramic
• Not plastic
• Wash food and water bowls daily
• Washing cats chin after eating

CASE STUDY