What Causes Cat Acne?

1 Causes and Signs

The exact cause is unknown but is linked to follicle inflammation and bacteria. Any age can be affected, and the condition worsens without treatment.

It shows up on the chin, neck, and face. Poor cleaning lets food residue build up and clog follicles; greasy kibble or frequent wet food raises the risk, and flat-faced breeds are more prone.

Signs include inflamed, hairless, itchy skin with coal-like black specks. Secondary infection thickens and darkens the skin and oozes pus. Severe cases bring a swollen jaw, spongy lower lip, or tail acne, the so-called oily tail.

2 Treatment and Prevention

Treatment controls symptoms and addresses the cause. Keep the cat calm and low-stress, which helps slow the condition.

Use topical antiseptics and oral antibiotics as needed, following the vet’s dosing, and keep the skin clean and medicated throughout.

Diet: cut fat and carbohydrates and add vitamin A and E.

Prevention: use stainless steel bowls, clean them often, brush daily and check the skin, avoid greasy food, and wipe the chin with an enzymatic pad after wet meals. Early correct care usually controls the symptoms.