Home Treatments for Feline Acne

Feline acne is mostly located on the cat's chin and lip area, and may be found in cats of any breed, sex or age. Acne in cats may pass unnoticed due to the fur, but some cases are more severe and very visible.

The Occurrence of Acne

The sebaceous glands produce sebum, which is an oily substance that protects the skin from dryness and irritation. These glands are linked to the cat's hair follicles. When these follicles are blocked by the sebum, you may notice acne or blackheads. There might be secondary infections that cause swelling, pimples and bleeding.

Causes of Cat Acne

Even if the real causes of acne in felines are not determined precisely, the acne is linked to stress, food allergies, irregular grooming or hyperactive sebaceous glands. Cats using plastic bowls are more susceptible to acne because the plastic gathers bacteria that may get on the cat's chin, causing acne. Some cats may also be allergic to plastic bowls. Certain foods may cause allergic reactions including irritation and cat chin acne.

Feline Acne Treatment

Light cases of feline acne may be treated at home. The idea is to remove the surplus of the sebum that may cause the acne. Give your cat a bath, or if the cat is uncooperative, clean him with a moist cloth. Use an antibacterial soap that will clean the area.

Get a solution of hydrogen peroxide or Betadine and use these while bathing. Use some salts in the bath water - these are cleansing and help the cat calm down.

Get a topical ointment of vitamin A and retinoids and use these ointments twice a day.

Treatment for Severe Cases of Acne

Some cats may have more severe acne and require a more complicated treatment.

Take your cat to the vet and make sure he has acne and not a different type of cat skin disease. The fur should be removed to prevent further infections and to help the area heal faster.

Antibiotics will be prescribed to eliminate the infection. The vet will prescribe ointments containing benzoyl peroxide or chlorhexidine. The inflammation may be reduced by using corticosteroid ointments. If the inflammation is severe, oral corticosteroids may also be needed.

Prevent Feline Acne

To avoid the acne issues, give your cat regular baths and take time to groom him. Get rid of any plastic bowl. Metal or ceramic bowls are preferred. Wash your cat's chin after each meal to prevent acne in that area. Keep the bowls clean and make sure to give an appropriate diet to your cat. Change the water once or twice per day.

 

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