My cat has black crusts on his chin. Is it flea eggs or acne?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

  Veterinarian

  Published on September 18th, 2017

  Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Tootie!
  
  It looks like chine acne to me. I recommend a novel protein diet. Chicken is the most common protein allergen so try to get venison, salmon or duck. There are also prescription options. I would make sure all his water and food bowels are stainless steel are are cleaned daily. She likely needs several weeks of an antibiotic, since she is hard to pill ask your Vet about Convenia, which is a 2 week injectable antibiotic. The topical I recommend is pyoben but it has been on back order for a year or so. Instead look for a 2-3% benzoyl peroxide shampoo and clean his chin every other day. This shampoo can be found online and likely at your Vet.
  
  I hope this helps and I wish Tootie the best!

  

  2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Penelope Graben, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on September 6th, 2019

  Hello,
  
  The signs of a deeper and more serious bacterial infection are increased swelling, redness, oozing, pain, and behavioral changes, such as not wanting to eat and hiding. An in-focus picture of his chin may help us visualize this if you are unsure.
  
  Feline chin acne can be difficult to control, so it may just need more time for the medication to work. You can continue with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid (Stridex is fine) wipes. This will be something you need to do long term and is not a quick fix. You do not need to comb or manipulate the area, as this may push infection deeper into the pores.
  
  I hope this is helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Debi Matlack

  Veterinary Technician

  Published on June 9th, 2019

  It looks like feline acne from what I can see in the photo. If he eats or drinks from plastic dishes, get rid of them and use glass, steel or ceramic instead. Cats are sometimes allergic to plastic bowls. If you have acne pads with benzyl peroxide (don't use the kind with salicylic acid) you can use them to clean off the affected area twice daily. Or you can use a cotton ball and regular hydrogen peroxide to clean his chin. If it does not significantly improve in a few days, get him in to see your vet as this may indicate a more serious problem.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful