Black Spots on Lip

[Luvcats]

My male cat has developed black spots on his lower lip and at times seems to be swollen. Other than this he acts fine. He was a feral cat that I adopted and have had him for over a year now. I have two older female cats (16) one of which gets bumps on her chin. I thought it might be feline acne as I was using plastic bowls with plastic tray for feeding, but have taken them away a few weeks ago. Please advise.

[Lucky Rescue]

It still may be feline acne. Try washing the affected area a couple of times each day with a benzoyl peroxide shampoo or a surgical scrub like chlorhexidine to get rid of excess sebum, and see if that clears up the problem. If the symptoms are mild and there is no swelling, itching or pus this may work.

What type of dishes did you switch to? Usually stainless steel is best.

There are other conditions - like ringworm - that may look like feline acne but are not. If the shampoo and stainless steel doesn't remedy this in 2 - 4 weeks, a vet visit is probably necessary.

[Luvcats]

Thanks for your reply. Do I use the same procedure on Gerri's Lip for the black spots??? I am using glass bowls now.

[Lucky Rescue]

Oh, sorry! I thought you were referring to the cat's chin only. My mistake!
These black spots are probably blackheads. Some cats have over active sebaceous glands, and acne and blackheads can result.

There can be secondary and potentially serious infection with this condition, so if using the cleaning method does not get rid of the problem soon, and especially since your cat has swelling as well, he should see a vet.