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What causes black crusty stuff around my cat's mouth and lips?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 7 months and 13 days old | 7 lbs

I’ve noticed black/spotty/crusty stuff around my 7 mo mouth, more so towards the corners of her lips. I’ve never seen this before in any of my cats so I’m not sure what it is?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on March 1st, 2019

Margot has irritation on her lips. Many times this is related to an allergy but a viral infection is also possible. This allergy could be food related or sometimes related to using a plastic bowl. You can try changing all the food and water bowls over to metal or ceramic. Wash them once a week with hot soapy water. Food allergy may be a little more difficult to diagnose. I recommend a hydrolyzed protein diet for 12 weeks. I recommend to discuss this option worth your veterinarian. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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