Acne in Cats

                          ------------

                      General Information



Feline acne is a skin disease resulting from the inability of

some cats to clean their chins.  While most of the body is

cleaned by direct licking, the chin must be cleaned by

moistening the paws with saliva and rubbing them over the chin.

Some cats do this ineffectively.



Dirt accumulates on the cat's chin and mixes with normal skin

secretions.  The hair follicles become plugged, forming

blackheads.  Blackheads may become infected, causing small

pustules and sores.



The problem often recurs in susceptible cats and seems related to

the hair-growth.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  General measures:  Gentle cleaning of the area on a regular

    basis removes accumulated debris and helps prevent

    recurrences. You should use the mild antibacterial skin

    cleanser recommended by the doctor, or alcohol.



2.  Medications are necessary if the chin is infected.  Please

    call the doctor if you cannot give the medication as

    directed.



        Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your cat scratches or otherwise damages its chin.



    * Your cat's chin does not heal or worsens.



    * Your cat's general health worsens.