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Chin acne is a condition in cats which is characterized
by bumps or pimples that appear on the skin of the lower
jaw of the cat. Sometimes the area appears to
have black crusts spots on the affected jaw. These
areas are actually infected sores, much like that of
acne in people. The infection involves the hair
follicles as well, which is again similar to that in
people acne.
The cause of chin acne is unclear, but allergies
tend to be associated with the condition. Sometimes
cats are allergic to plastic if fed from a plastic food
dish (contact
allergy). Other times, allergies from pollen
(inhalant
allergy), flea
allergy, or food
allergy, can be associated with this condition.
Treatment is done with topical medication applied to
the affected area. Usually medication which contains
benzoyl peroxide works the best. Benzoyl peroxide
is an agent found in many over the counter acne preparations,
and acts to "flush" the hair follicles free
of debris and infection. Benzoyl peroxide for
our cats usually is available in a shampoo preparation.
Shampoo with benzoyl peroxide can be applied directly
from the bottle onto the affected area and left to dry.
Cleaning the area as needed and continued application,
will most often clear the condition. Cats with
underlying allergies need to be treated for these conditions
as well to prevent the reoccurrence of chin acne.
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