posted 09-09-2003 06:59 PM         

For several months, our 6 year old cat has been getting scab-like patches in the fur under her chin. The "scabs" are about a quarter of an inch in diameter (sometimes smaller) and occur at different locations on her chin frequently. They look like oozes of brownish black puss that leeches out of her pores. She has no other symptoms that we can tell and the "scabs" do not seem to be sore.
We appreciate any comments......

posted 09-09-2003 07:58 PM         

We use glass and metal dishes only.

She also doesn't use the litter box for urine. She was abused as a kitten and has a major behavioral problem. She is a good cat to us but fights w/ the others and does not like other people.

anything would help.....

posted 09-09-2003 08:05 PM         

Possible Causes
Causes of feline acne vary, and include food allergies, contact allergies, lack of cleanliness, and even stress. However, plastic food and water dishes are major culprits. Plastic is a magnet for bacteria (which may irritate your cat's skin, causing the acne) and dirt that work their way into scratches and nicks, continually infecting your cat. Switching to glass, ceramic or stainless steel bowls is the best solution, along with thoroughly washing your cat's dishes every day. Cats with flat faces, such as Persians and Exotics, are particularly susceptible to feline acne and may need your assistance in cleaning their chins after meals.

Treatment Options
Treatment varies, but most veterinarians will recommend daily cleaning of the affected area with an antibiotic soap, followed by a topical ointment, either antibiotic or anti-fungal. Oral antibiotics may also be prescribed, as well as a scrub with hydrogen peroxide. NEVER try to pop or drain the pustules, as this spreads the infection and furthers the problem.

When feline acne does not respond to topical treatment, there are a couple of things to consider. The first one is whether or not it really is feline acne. It may be one of the conditions that can mimic feline acne, such as ringworm, food allergies, yeast infections, or demodectic mange. If it is feline acne and conventional treatments aren't working, your veterinarian should culture one of the pustules, and then choose an oral or systemic antibiotic based on the culture results.