Terramycin for Cat Chin Acne

Feline acne is a common skin problem among cats of all ages and breeds. Although acne is not a serious health problem, it can be itchy and irritating enough for the cat to begin scratching and rubbing it, which exacerbates the problem. Treatment usually involves daily cleaning, minor lifestyle changes, and antibiotics, sometimes including oxytetracycline, sold under the brand name Terramycin.

  1. Feline Acne

    • Feline acne generally occurs on the chin and around the mouth, and the reasons are unknown. Unlike canine acne, it is not confined to puberty and usually runs in cycles throughout a cat's life. The first signs are usually blackheads on the chin, a result of enlarged, clogged pores. If a secondary infection arises, a discharge may be present. Many vets believe that insufficient grooming, stress, and underlying skin infections such as seborrhea may play a role, and systemic viral infections may weaken the immune system enough to allow bacteria to proliferate.

    Terramycin

    • Terramycin is an antibiotic in the tetracycline family and is available in pills, topical ointment and injectable liquid. When taken internally, it is concentrated in the liver and excreted in the urine and stool while still active. Since all tetracycline drugs are closely related, using Terramycin over time may induce a resistance to other tetracyclines. Tetracyclines primarily treat bacterial infections by not allowing the bacteria to synthesize proteins, which means they cannot reproduce. As the old ones die, there are no more to replace them, and the infection dies off.

    Effectiveness

    • Although Terramycin works against a wide range of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, it is generally not recommended for feline acne. Staphylococcus and Streptococcus are the two most common bacteria isolated from feline acne pustules, and tetracyclines are not used to treat Staphylococcus. It can be used to treat Streptococcus if a culture and sensitivity has proven the particular Strep. strain to be affected, but as most strains of Streptococcus are resistant to tetracycline, a different drug is generally used.

    Alternatives

    • Feline acne is most effectively treated by daily soaking in Epsom salts to promote drainage, a seborrheic shampoo to remove excess oil and scabbing, and a topical application of benzoyl peroxide to kill bacteria. More-severe cases may require a clindamycin ointment, which contains stronger antibiotic properties, and a round of oral antibiotics. Clavamox, which contains both amoxicillin and clavulanic acid, is commonly prescribed for its effectiveness against Staphylococcus. If a secondary yeast infection is present, a topical or oral antifungal may also be prescribed.

    Additional Treatment

    • In addition to medications, minor lifestyle changes can promote healing and prevent relapse. Switch to glass or plastic food and water bowls, as plastic tends to hold acne-causing bacteria. No matter what kind of food and water bowls are used, they should be washed in warm, soapy water every day. Cats prone to acne should also have their chin and mouth area wiped clean after eating to prevent the buildup of moisture and bacteria that causes outbreaks.