Cat Acne: Causes and Solutions for Feline Acne

Feline acne is an inflammation that mainly affects a cat’s chin and the skin surrounding their mouth.  

Cat acne occurs when a cat’s hair follicles become clogged, much like blackheads in people. Sometimes, pus can form in these clogged hair follicles due to underlying bacterial infections.  

If pressure builds up inside the hair follicles, they can burst open, resulting in discharge and larger, open sores. 

Feline acne is not considered a veterinary emergency, but that doesn’t mean it will resolve on its own.  

Left untreated, cat acne can worsen and lead to thick, inflamed skin and deeper infections. 

Plus, it can mimic more serious health concerns, such as cancer or autoimmune diseases, so it’s important to see a veterinarian to get an accurate diagnosis.  

Cats with acne may have these symptoms on their chin and the area surrounding their lips:  

• Small bumps or sores 
• Swelling or redness 
• Thickened skin or crusts 
• Dark spots 
• Bleeding or pus-like discharge 
• Itching and scratching (in severe cases) 

Since cat acne causes clogged pores, it may be related to overproduction of keratin or sebum, a naturally oily substance on the skin. But the definitive cause is unknown.  

It’s thought there may be an environmental component, too, such as increased sensitivity to something in the home, such as allergens or plastic bowls, which can harbor more bacteria than ceramic bowls.  

Underlying autoimmune disorders (such as pemphigus foliaceus) and exposure to bacteria, viruses, or parasites can also increase the risk of cats developing acne.  

If you notice symptoms of acne on your cat, call your veterinarian for a checkup. Often, a diagnosis can be made after a physical exam.  

However, sometimes your vet might want to rule out other issues too. Here are some tests they might perform before giving your cat a diagnosis:   

Skin scraping: This test collects skin cells that can be viewed under a microscope to rule out mites.  

Cytology: Skin cells or discharge from the sores can be viewed under a microscope to look for infection or inflammation as well as certain types of cancer.  

Fungal culture: If ringworm is suspected, a swab is gently rubbed on the affected area and sent to a laboratory for diagnosis.

Skin biopsy: In severe cases or in cases that aren’t resolving with treatment, a cat may be sedated so that a small sample of skin can be removed and sent to a pathologist. This is helpful if your vet wants to rule out an autoimmune disorder or cancer.  

For mild cases of cat acne without infection, a chlorhexidine scrub or wipe, like Pet MD Chlorhexidine Antiseptic Wipes for Dogs & Cats, can gently cleanse the affected area and may be enough to resolve the acne.  

For cats with secondary bacterial or fungal infections, cleansing followed by topical or oral medications is necessary.  

Medications may include:   

• Antibiotics, such as Clavamox 

• Antifungals, such as Itrafungol (itraconazole) Oral Solution for Cats 

• Anti-inflammatories, such as Prednisolone Compounded Tuna Oral Oil Suspension  

In severe cases, cats may need to be sedated so that large abscesses can be lanced and drained of pus.  

Generally, mild cases of cat acne will resolve over one to two weeks with appropriate treatment.  

Severe cases of cat acne may not resolve for a couple of months.  

However, cat acne is usually a recurring condition. Even if an episode resolves with treatment, your cat will likely experience another episode in the future.  

That’s because the underlying causes, such as environmental triggers or autoimmune issues, must be very carefully managed. Sometimes, multiple factors contribute to a breakout, which can also contribute to recurrences.  

Pet parents can take steps to reduce the risk of cat acne and prevent future outbreaks—or at least reduce the severity of them.

In general, it all comes down to grooming, cleaning, and routine veterinary care:  

• Regularly groom your cat’s fur to keep it free of dirt and debris using a brush, like the Safari Complete Cat Brush, and facial wipes, like Pet Parents Pet WiPees All Purpose Cat Wipes.   

• Frequently clean your cat’s food and water bowls, and avoid plastic bowls, which are more likely to harbor bacteria. Try the Frisco Cat Face Non-skid Ceramic Bowl Bundle or the Necoichi Ceramic Elevated Cat Food & Water Bowl Set.  

• Manage any underlying conditions, such as allergies or autoimmune diseases, and keep your cat up to date on routine visits too.  

Is cat chin acne common?   

Yes. Feline acne is common and can affect any cat.  

Is there a cure for feline acne?  

No. There is no cure for feline acne. It’s considered a chronic, recurring condition. However, it is manageable with treatment, and your vet can help you control flare-ups. 

Do cats get pimples?  

Yes. Cats can get pimples when their skin pores become clogged with keratin or sebum.  

What happens if cat acne is left untreated?  

If left untreated, cat acne can worsen and lead to thickened skin and crusting, which can cause discomfort and increase your cat’s risk of serious infection.