Feline Acne

Feline acne is a localized infection in which blackheads develop on the chin of the cats. It usually begins as small and oily black pimples like blackheads which later on becomes into inflamed pustules.

The cats most frequently suffer from this condition as the small sebaceous glands which are associated with the hair follicles secrete the oils.

When these glands become overactive, then the cats get feline acne. The pores and hair follicles are blocked due to these glands and form the comedones. In some cases, these hair follicles become irritated, infected and swollen.

Causes of Feline Acne

The exact cause of feline acne is unknown but there are some factors which can increase the risk of feline acne and they are:-

• Food allergies and contact allergies
• Lack of cleanliness
• Stress
• Suppressed immune system
• Plastic food and water dishes
• Ceramic or stainless steel bowls and glass

Due to some of these factors by which excess oil is produced and the hair follicles do not function effectively.

Signs of Feline Acne

Various signs of feline acne can be seen on the chin of the cat and they are:-

• Hair loss, draining tracts and swelling develops on the chin in case of severe feline acne.
• Multiple comedones develop on the lips and chin of the cats which looks like dirty. These comedones appear as small abscesses which remain open and form the crusts.
• It can be itchy.
• Secondary bacterial infections can develop.
• The feline acne can also affect the skin and face in case of Persian cats.
• Feline acne occurs in both male and female cats and affects cats of all ages and breeds.

Diagnosis of Feline Acne

Skin scrapings are done to find out the cause of feline acne and other infections in cats. A skin biopsy can also be performed to rule out the condition such as feline acne. In case, if a secondary bacterial infection is suspected in cats then a culture and sensitivity can be done to diagnose the cats.

Treatment of Feline Acne

The treatments which are available only control the feline acne in cats but not a permanent cure. Very mild cases of this acne cannot be treated. Sometimes, antiseborrheic shampoos which contain benzoyl peroxide are used to treat this type of acne and remove the excess oils. In case of secondary bacterial infection, oral or topical antibiotics can be used to treat acne.

Sometimes, supplementation with fatty acids is beneficial in this type of treatment. Retin-A can be used but it can be applied very rare as it can leads to irritation. Oral retinoid therapy and teratogenic can be given to treat the feline acne in cats.

Preventions

• Water dishes made up of stainless steel should be used for the treatment of feline acne.
• The chins of the cats should be regularly cleaned by the person.
• Essential antibiotics and medications should be given to the cats from time to time so that infection does not spread in cats.