Do you have a cat that suffers from acne? If so, you're not alone. Feline acne is a common skin condition that affects cats of all ages, breeds, and genders. While it's rarely serious, acne can be irritating and uncomfortable. That's why it's important to take steps to help manage your cat's acne and keep their skin healthy.
In this post, we'll explain more about acne in cats and take a look at what causes it. We'll also explore why virgin coconut oil is a great natural remedy for treating cat acne and share some tips on using it to help heal your cat's skin. So, if your cat has acne and you're looking for a natural solution, keep reading!
What Is Feline Acne?
Just like humans, cats can suffer from acne. The condition usually presents itself as small, raised bumps often accompanied by blackheads and whiteheads. The area affected is usually around the chin, but it can also appear on the lips and around the mouth.
Other signs of cat acne include swelling, redness or inflammation, itching or scratching at the affected area, crusty or scaly skin, and bald patches. In severe cases, secondary bacterial infections or abscesses can develop.
What Causes Acne in Cats?
Feline acne can be caused by a combination of factors, so it's important to speak to your vet if you think your cat is suffering from the condition. Here are a few of the most common causes of acne in cats:
Overproduction of Sebum
Sebum is an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. When too much is produced, it can block hair follicles or oil glands, leading to acne. Some cats are prone to overproducing sebum, especially those with long or thick fur.
Poor Self-Grooming Habits
Most cats are meticulous groomers and can clean themselves very effectively. But those that don't groom themselves properly may be at a higher risk of developing acne. This can occur if they don't clean their chin and mouth area adequately, leading to a buildup of oils, dirt, and bacteria on the skin.
Allergies or Sensitivities
Cats can be allergic or sensitive to certain foods, environmental allergens like dust, pollen, or grass, or contact allergens like fabrics, chemicals, or shampoos. These allergens can cause inflammation and irritation, potentially leading to acne.
Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal imbalances can cause the sebaceous glands to overproduce sebum, which may lead to acne. Hormonal imbalances can be caused by diseases like hypothyroidism or diabetes, as well as other factors.
Weakened Immune System
The immune system helps to protect the body against infection and other threats. If your cat's immune system is weakened due to stress, underlying medical conditions, or other factors, they may be more susceptible to developing acne.
Why Is Coconut Oil an Effective Remedy for Cat Acne?
Coconut oil is a fantastic natural remedy for treating cat acne. It's packed full of medium-chain fatty acids and Vitamin E, which soothe irritation, reduce inflammation and redness, and help to keep the skin healthy and moisturized.
Coconut oil also has antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties, thanks to its high lauric acid content. This helps to fight any bacteria or fungi that may be contributing to your cat's acne. In addition, coconut oil is a great alternative for cats that are allergic or sensitive to traditional shampoos or treatments. It's natural, non-toxic, and won't irritate their skin.
CocoTherapy co-founder Charisa’s cat Sebastian was treated for chin acne with coconut oil, which quickly resolved the condition in less than a week.
How to Use Coconut Oil to Treat Feline Acne
Now that you know why coconut oil is an effective remedy for cat acne, let's look at how to use it. First, make sure you're using a natural, unrefined product like CocoTherapy Organic Virgin Coconut Oil. You can also use an organic MCT oil, like our Triplex MCT-3 Oil.
Choosing a high-quality product is essential to ensure that your cat gets the best results. Supermarket brands often contain additives, preservatives, and other ingredients that may irritate your cat's skin or cause an allergic reaction. Plus, they're lower in lauric acid, which means they won't be as effective.
Here's a step-by-step guide to using coconut oil as a natural remedy for cat acne:
- Start by cleaning the area around your cat's chin and mouth. We recommend using a sterile saline solution on a cotton swab to gently clean and disinfect.
- Dry the area thoroughly and apply a thin layer of coconut oil or MCT oil. Make sure the oil covers all affected areas, including any bumps, redness, or sores.
- Try to prevent your cat from licking or grooming the area. It's best to keep the oil on the skin for at least 10-15 minutes. If necessary, distract your kitty with their favorite toy!
- Keep the area clean and reapply the oil regularly. It's important to clean the area at least twice a day and apply coconut oil or MCT oil. This will help keep bacteria at bay and promote healing.
- Give your cat some coconut oil as a supplement in their food every day. Coconut oil is packed with health benefits and can help boost your cat's immune system. So, make sure they get some in their diet every day. Check out our previous post for detailed information about how to use coconut oil with your pets.
The Bottom Line
Feline acne can be a frustrating problem for cats and cat parents. But thankfully, coconut oil is an effective, natural remedy that can help to soothe irritation, reduce inflammation, fight bacteria and fungi, and keep the area clean. Plus, it's non-toxic, so you don't have to worry about any adverse reactions.
Follow these simple steps, and you should start to see an improvement in your cat's acne symptoms within a couple of days. If the condition worsens or your cat is still showing signs of discomfort, make sure to contact your vet as soon as possible. In rare cases, secondary bacterial or fungal infections may be present, so it's best to seek professional advice if you're concerned.
