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The specific causes of feline acne are not known. Cats with weakened immune systems are more susceptible, but otherwise healthy male and female cats of all ages may be affected.

Contributing factors in the development of the disease include stress, poor grooming habits, and abnormal sebum production.

In affected cats, lesions vary in severity, but are typically mild and asymptomatic. Pain and/or itching are not common unless there is a secondary bacterial skin infection. Lesions usually initially present at about 1 year of age, and remain cyclic for the life of the cat.

Your veterinarian will determine whether or not treatment is required. This will depend upon the severity of the symptoms, and whether or not any secondary conditions exist.

Feline acne symptoms and signs — Acne in cats may include lesions on the chin and lower lip, as well as swelling of the chin and around the mouth. Your cat may display dark brown comedones or crusted reddish papules.

Secondary bacterial infections may be present, involving swelling of the chin area, or drainage of the lesions. In these cases, both systemic and topical antibiotics may be prescribed.

Sometimes ringworm or yeast infections can be mistaken for acne, as can bacterial skin infections as well.

Feline acne treatment — Treatment is often not necessary, except in more serious cases. In fact, it’s believed that overtreatment may increase the severity of the skin lesions.

Treatment may vary based on the severity of the case. Your veterinarian may recommend topical therapy of some kind to help remove the blackheads.

In order to facilitate cleaning of the affected area, as well as the application of topical medications, your vet may remove excess skin from the area around the lesions. You should never attempt this yourself as you can hurt your cat or cause an infection.

Treatment may include the use of antiseptics, such as Listerine or alcohol. Antiseborrheic shampoos may help as well. Some of these contain salicylic acid, which is a common component of human acne treatment formulas.

It may be effective to use topical benzoyl peroxide solutions in gel or shampoo form. Benzoyl peroxide preparations made for small animals are half the strength of those made for humans.

Never use preparations designed for humans on your cat unless instructed to do so by your veterinarian. Even the animal formula benzoyl peroxide treatments may be irritating to your cat’s skin when used repeatedly.

Immune compromised cats, such as those suffering from feline AIDS may receive steroid therapy treatment for feline acne. Additional supplements may be used as well, including off-label drugs.

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