Is your cat's chin trying to tell you something?

🐾 Do Cats get Acne??!

Yes, cats can get acne too! It usually shows up as little black specks on the chin. It might look worrying, but most cases are mild and do not bother your cat at all.

With a little care and attention, you can help keep it under control and know when it is time to see the vet.

🐾 What It Looks Like

Early signs: tiny blackheads - that feel like little scabs - on the chin (sometimes hidden by fur).

If it worsens: follicles can become inflamed, leading to spots or pustules.

Most cats are not bothered, but it is wise to keep an eye on changes.

🔎 Why Does It Happen?

Feline acne does not have one clear cause. It can be linked to:

- Stress

- Viral infections

- Allergies or parasites

- Poor grooming

- Plastic bowls that trap bacteria and may irritate the skin

🧪 How Vets Diagnose It

Your vet may:

- Look at the chin and lips

- Take a swab to check for bacteria

- Run a skin scraping or fungal test if the problem is widespread

💊 Treatment Options

Mild Cases:

- Often no treatment needed beyond gentle cleaning

- Warm compresses help soften blackheads

- Do not over-handle, as fussing can irritate the skin

Moderate Cases:

- Vet may suggest a safe topical solution

- Infected areas can be treated with mupirocin antibiotic cream

- If mites or ringworm are found, special medicines will be prescribed

Severe Cases:

- Larger or painful lesions may need antibiotics

- Short courses of steroids can calm inflammation

- These cases require close veterinary monitoring to avoid relapse

🌿 At-Home Care for Happier Chins

Add omega-3 fatty acids to your cat’s diet (from fish or algae, as cats cannot use plant-based omega-3s)

- Switch to ceramic or stainless-steel bowls for at least 2 months

- Wash bowls daily

- Use gentle unscented wipes on the chin if grooming is tricky

❤️ Final Thought

Feline acne is usually far more worrying for owners than for cats. Most cases are mild, easy to manage, and do not affect your cat’s happiness or quality of life. With good hygiene, careful monitoring, and veterinary support if needed, your cat can stay healthy, purr-filled, and chin-spot free.

✨ Top Tip: A clean bowl is a happy bowl. Daily washing helps prevent many skin and tummy troubles, not just feline acne!

Lots of purrs

Dr Bec