Cat having mouth problems?

by Sara
(Prince George, Canada)

Hi Kate, I'm having some problems with my eldest cat, Milo, and I'm hoping you might be able to shed some light on the situation.

My eldest Cat, Milo(who is approx. 10 years old), is having some mouth problems.
About a week ago, I noticed some black flecks on his chin. After wiping it down with a warm cloth, they seemed to be gone. A few days ago, I noticed Milo hadn't eaten that day, and examined him once more. The black flecks had appeared once more, and had come back somewhat stronger. I immediately thought fleas, and have since realized that it seems to be a dried substance. As of today there is a small amount of mucus around the outside of his lower mouth, and one of his nostrils(he WILL NOT let me touch it). It smells somewhat like an abcess does when its draining, which is what worries me. I have provided a picture of his chin, for description.
He drinks a large amount of water, and still uses the kitty box(no BMs, but clean urine), so at least I know he's getting water. He refuses to eat his normal cat kibble, nor will he touch wet cat food or even tuna juice. He is on his way to see the vet in the next day or two, but I would like to know what I may be up against here(unfortunately, and it kills me, the financial situation has forced me to wait until now to take him).
I have 3 other cats, none of which seem to be affected in any way, and he is acting awfully strange. He doesn't respond when I call to him(he normally leaps towards me when I do), he tends to favor sleeping ON his paws, rather than sprawled out in his "takeupasmuchroomaspossible" position, and he's somewhat distant.
Any insight provided is greatly appreciated, and if there is anything I can do to alleviate his pain or discomfort until his visit, I would be appreciative to hear it.

Answer by Kate
hi
well there is no way for me to say for sure but i wonder if he has developed feline acne. This is common around the chin area and is more prevalent during the spring or fall. It is generally caused by an over active gland producing too much oil. it is usually easily treated but there are varying degrees of severity and in some cases can be uncomfortable for the cat. So yes i think taking him to the vet to have this properly diagnosed is the best thing.

Sometimes it can also be caused by an allergic reaction to plastic bowls etc. Allergies can develop over time, so even if you have always used a plastic bowl it may be a good idea to change this to see if this helps at all.

best wishes kate

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