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What are the black dots/residue on my cat's mouth that keep returning?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | unspayed | 10 lbs

Hello, I have been seeing black dot like residue near my female adult cat’s mouth. It has appeared recently and when we try to wipe it off, it comes back. Thank you.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Debi Matlack

Veterinary Technician

Published on February 20th, 2021

It could be a mild allergic reaction or feline acne. It could a reaction to plastic bowls if you use them to feed or water her. If so, change these out for glass, stainless steel or ceramic as see if that helps. Feline acne is common and can be managed easily by keeping the chin clean with a cotton ball and some hydrogen peroxide, or if you have acne pads with benzoyl peroxide you can use those once or twice a day.

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