Spots on the Nose & Lips of a Cat

Cat owners may become alarmed if their pets suddenly sprout black or brown spots on their noses, lips or ears. However, this is a common phenomena, particularly among aging, orange tabbies, and is not a cause for concern. Known, as lentigo simplex, these spots are much like freckles. Usually harmless, lentigo is hardly ever the result of a serious underlying medical condition. The lentigo may come and go, and there is no method or reason for treating it.

  1. Causes of Lentigo

    • Lentigo occurs when a skin cell produce greater levels of melanin than the surrounding areas. This causes that spot to darken so it stands out from the rest of the dermis. Although cats may develop lentigo anywhere, it is usually noticed on the nose, lips and inner ears, since these areas are not covered by fur.

    Susceptibility to Lentigo

    • Lentigo is a hereditary trait that occurs most frequently in tabbies. Aging and exposure to sun increase the likelihood of lentigo. It is very rare for a kitten or young cat to develop lentigo.

    Appearance of Lentigo

    • Lentigo spots range from light brown to deep black, and usually appear quite suddenly. Some cats have only a few spots, while others have dense clusters. There is no predicting when lentigo will appear or if it will eventually fade.

    When to Be Concerned

    • If the lentigo spots become raised, inflamed or suddenly start growing, take your cat to the vet. These symptoms can indicate skin cancer and should be dealt with promptly. If your cat has a white or light pink nose, be particularly vigilant for unusual skin discoloration or darkening. Cats with light skin color are particularly vulnerable to dermal disorders.