Feline Acne - How To Control The Problem
If your cat seems to have lumps around his face or if the chin appears swollen, then your feline may have a case of feline acne. The acne occurs when bacteria work their way into the sweat glands around the face. Boils can form when the condition occurs and the swelling can cause a good deal of pain. A trip to veterinary services is suggested so that antibiotics can be provided. This will help to clear up the infected sweat glands, but you will need to provide treatment at home to make sure the acne does not reappear. Some cats are prone to the issue, so follow the tips below to keep the acne at bay.
Reduce Contact with Bacteria
Bacteria live on all of the surfaces in your home, and these bacteria can cling to your cat's face and cause acne problems. If your cat has already had a bout with acne, then it is wise to reduce the amount of microorganism your cat comes into contact with during the day. Your cat's food and water bowls often contain a good deal of bacteria, so consider switching out plastic bowls for metal or glass ones. Plastic is a soft material compared to metal and glass, and this means that cracks and scrapes form in the bowls much more easily. These spaces are perfect places for bacteria to live.
Clean Containers
Once you switch to glass or metal containers, make sure to wash out the bowls at least once a week to kill the bacteria that have gathered inside the dishes. You can use mild soap and water to remove the bacteria or you can use a pet friendly cleaner like vinegar to kill microorganisms. Just make sure to thoroughly rinse and dry the dishes when you are done cleaning them. Bacteria thrive in wet conditions and so do fungi.
You should also make sure to clean litter boxes frequently to make sure your cat is not constantly exposed to fecal bacteria. The bacteria can easily transfer to your cat's paws and the microorganisms can cling to the face when your cat cleans himself. Use a scoopable litter so you can easily remove fecal matter two or three times a day. Make sure the litter is absorbent as well, so your cat does not step on wet urine or fecal clumps that can transfer bacteria to the body. Silica gel cat litters are often considered the most absorbent.
Boost the Immune System
Your cat will have a far better chance of staving off acne if his immune system is healthy. A healthy immune system will allow your cat's body to get rid of bacteria that cause acne before an infection can occur.
One of the best ways to boost the immune system is to offer high quality foods. Cats are carnivores, and this means that a variety of protein based food sources are best to keep the immune system healthy. Canned or wet food has more protein than dry foods, so switch to canned varieties. Also, make sure to alternate between chicken, turkey, beef, and fish products to provide your cat with all of the amino acids he needs.
Invest in Testing
If good cleaning and feeding habits do not control feline acne, then it may be in your best interest to meet with your cat's veterinarian. Your cat may have an immune disorder that is preventing the body from fighting off the bacteria effectively. Blood tests will indicate if a virus or systematic disorder is causing an immune problem. Your veterinarian can then suggest treatment options to help boost your cat's overall health.
If your cat appears to have boils or pimples on the face, then he likely has a case of feline acne. Your veterinarian can diagnose the problem and provide antibiotics. You also need to follow the tips above to make sure the acne does not return.
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