Fleas or just dirt????

[Sia1]

I know this has been discussed in other areas but I was curious. I found little black spots underneath one of my cat's mouth, which I believe to be fleas. I've seen fleas before but I can't find any black spots with heads or legs...it just looks like black dirt and it's just on her chin. I looked on my other cats and have found nothing at all around their necks or tail regions.
I have seen gnats flying around in the house but nothing hopping around on furniture or the carpet. Could it simply be dirt?

[sasvermont]

sometimes kitties get "black heads" on their chins from not keeping their chins clean. it could also be fleas, but you would find them toward their rear ends as well.

[Sia1]

Would these blackheads be in the fur though or on the skin? These black spots aren't necessarily on her skin..but in the fur where I've seen fleas on other animals. What would be the best method to treat these spots if they are black heads?

[sasvermont]

I used to scrap them off my cats fur with my finger then apply peroxide (3%)....but just some warm water will do....peroxide won't hurt them if you are careful with it.

You may want to call a vet....but it really sounds like acne to me...I would have a vet look at it, then the next time you'll know what to do about it. Can't be TOO careful with these furry little devils!

;)

[NoahsMommy]

Hi,

It could be either flea "stuff" or acne....I would ask the vet.

Let us know what you find! :)

[Sia1]

Well I looked in the rear areas of her :eek: and didn't find anything. I figure it's probably the chin acne and she has an appointment on Monday at the vet to get that confirmed. Thanks SAS because I never would have even thought it could something like that. I went looking online and it's often caused by plastic food bowls and that's exactly what I have for them. Tomorrow I plan on changing that. Thanks again!

[Sia1]

Thanks SAS-I took Callie to the vet and it was feline acne. He's pretty sure she's got some sort of allergy because she is also having problems with her ears. He gave me some medicine for both and hopefully, that will clear up her problems..