What is chin acne in cats?
Chin acne in cats is a poorly understood disorder of follicular keratinization (the overproduction of keratin, a protein found in hair and the outer layer of skin). If this excess keratin is trapped in the hair follicle, comedones (blackheads) form. Pustules (pimples) may form if bacteria infect the comedones.
Cat acne is characterized by the development of folliculitis, which is inflammation and infection of the hair follicles, and furunculosis, which is rupture of hair follicles and leakage of keratin into surrounding tissues, leading to larger sores like boils.
What causes chin acne?
While the exact mechanism is not understood, the abnormal follicular keratinization is thought to be related to a primary skin disorder such as excessive sebum production (natural oil produced by the skin). Other factors that may play a role include stress, viral infection, immunosuppression, allergies, or poor grooming habits. Unfortunately, none of these factors have been proven to be the cause of feline acne. There may be an association between using plastic food and water dishes and chin acne, as the irregular surface or scratches in the plastic make it more prone to bacterial contamination.
What are the clinical signs of chin acne?
The most common clinical sign associated with chin acne is a dirty-looking chin. Lesions may appear on the chin, the lower lip, and/or the upper lip. Careful examination will reveal the blackheads and infected follicles. The lips and chin may become swollen and inflamed. Chronic cases may have hard, crusty lesions that are sore when touched. If pain is present, furunculosis is most often the cause.
How is chin acne diagnosed?
Diagnosis is generally based on medical history and clinical signs. Occasionally, blood and urine tests, skin cytology (looking for bacteria/yeast or unusual cells), and culture and sensitivity tests are required. If the lesions do not have a typical appearance, biopsies may be recommended to rule out cancer or immune-mediated disease. Other testing may include skin scrapings to rule out parasitic mites, and a fungal culture to rule out ringworm. Sometimes, dental X-rays may be taken, as an infected tooth root can cause swelling, mimicking the clinical appearance of chin acne.
How is feline chin acne treated?
Treatment of chin acne in cats often involves improved hygiene. A benzoyl peroxide product or shampoo may be used to cleanse the affected area and flush out the hair follicles. Other products may be used along with benzoyl peroxide, or as an alternative, such as antibacterial wipes, shampoos, and other products containing chlorhexidine and anti-seborrheic products. Antibiotic ointments are also beneficial for many cats.
Affected cats often benefit from a fatty acid supplement, especially omega-3 fatty acids. In some cases, it may be necessary to keep the hair clipped short. Oral antibiotics, corticosteroids (to reduce inflammation), or isotretinoin (the human acne drug, Accutane®) may be used in more severe or chronic cases. Your veterinarian will direct you on which products to use.
Replacing plastic food and water dishes with non-porous, smooth-surface dishes like glass or stainless may help to resolve chin acne in some cats, as well as daily washing of these dishes.
What is the prognosis for a cat diagnosed with chin acne?
Most cases of feline chin acne respond well to improved hygiene along with topical preparations or systemic medications. Owners should closely follow their veterinarian's instructions to ensure success. Stubborn cases may require aggressive treatment to control the problem.
