Kitty acne

Yup, they can get it too! Nothing to worry about if it's minor and they don't scratch it. Ryzyk had it. Best cure? Throw away plastic bowls! Even if you wash them daily, plastic still collects some food residue, bacteria, oils and such in tiny dents and scratches - just like old plastic cutting boards, only less visible and not that obvious. When your kitty eats from the plastic bowl, the chin rubs against that plastic, over and over, which eventually leads to kitty acne. It looks like dirt on the chin, deep under the fur.

Note those tiny black dots right above my thumb.

Don't try to scratch it off! It will heal by itself once you switch to ceramic or stainless steel bowls. Small "human" plates and bowls work perfectly, just make sure they have a wide enough base. Why didn't we do it right away? Well, it simply took us a while to find and get them (the right design).

What do you do if acne covers large area or your cat scratched it? Gently cleaning the chin with a mild, pet‑safe antiseptic (like diluted chlorhexidine, 2% or less) is a common approach. Don't panic and don't overuse! Don't use human products or alcohol! Those might be toxic or highly irritating for cats. If your cat scratched it badly or if the skin looks raw and irritated - consult with your vet.