Feline Acne: Can Pets Get Acne Too?
What You Need to Know About Feline Acne
We've talked about adult acne, baby acne, teenage acne, body acne and every other acne under the sun -- but what about feline acne? If you're one of those who have gotten weird looks when you tell people you think your cat may have acne, you're not alone. Your cat may indeed have it, and there are some things you need to know...
Cats Get Acne Too
Cats can indeed develop acne, and it has nothing to do with age or gender. Kittens and older cats, male and female -- feline acne does not discriminate. And while cats with immune issues may be prone to it, the condition has been known to develop in completely healthy cats too.
The Symptoms
If you notice that your cat has lesions on his chin and/or lower lip, or there is swelling there, feline acne may be present. It can also show itself as crusted reddish sores or dark brown comedones. Those things that look like zits on your cats chin? That may be exactly what they are...
What to Do
Let's face it, your cat doesn't have to get up in the morning and go to work, he doesn't have to deal with dirty looks from the girl at the checkout counter, and he definitely doesn't have to worry about impressing a date with a flawless complexion. A flawless coat of fur maybe, but not a flawless complexion. If your cat isn't experiencing any complications from the acne, just let it be.
If, however, the cat itches a lot or secondary infections develop, you may need to have him or her treated by a vet. Typical signs of complication include severe swelling, itching and/or discharge from affected areas. Topical therapy may be recommended to treat severe feline acne.