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My cat's chin acne is bleeding. Should I keep the plastic cone on?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 2 years and 5 months old | 9 lbs

Hi! My cat had feline acne on the chin and it has flared up and started to bleed. The vet told us not to use plastic food bowls because bacteria gets on it (which we don’t- we use ceremic) and prescribed Viaderm to apply topically while using the cone because he rubs and licks it off. He is miserable with the cone on and then I realize it is made of plastic. All day his chin is rubbing against the plastic and he gets blood and puss on it. Will that harbor bacteria? Is it better to leave it on?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 14th, 2018

If he is continually rubbing on his chin with his paw when the cone is off, then I would leave the cone on for a couple more days. However, you do need to wash the cone with hot water and a mild soap (dish soap or hand soap is fine) twice daily, then dry it completely before putting it back on.
If he is NOT rubbing on his chin, its ok to leave the cone off.

I hope that helps you! Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!
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