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Why does my cat have black dirt under her chin? Fleas or chin acne?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Persian | Female | spayed | 2 years old | 8.4 lbs

My cat has dirt under her chin. It looks like flea dirt. However, only at the chin area. I have another cat, but he is clean. Is this flea infestation? Or something else?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Amber W

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on October 1st, 2017

There is a possibility this is related to flea dirt but it also could be related to feline chin acne, ringworm, food allergy, or dermatitis. It's a good idea to have Lolita on a quality flea preventative like Frontline, Revolution, or Feline Bravecto incase this is flea related. Feline chin acne can result from using plastic bowls so it's best to use stainless steel or ceramic bowls. You can use a gentle shampoo to keep the skin clean and remove some of the debris. If the issue persists then I'd recommend having Lolita examined by your veterinarian as skin samples may need to be checked for infection. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach and best wishes to you and Lolita!

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    Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 3rd, 2017

    Hello and thanks for posting your question on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Unfortunately, the pictures did not go through so I am not able to see them. Black things under the chin may be flea dirt, comedomes (black heads), or feline acne. It is hard to say exactly what they may be without examining Gauss first. I recommend Gauss visit her veterinarian soon to have this looked at and evaluated. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach and best wishes to you and Gauss!

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