The Galway Independent together with the Galway SPCA has launched an educational programme in an effort to reduce cruelty to animals. Each week we will put together questions from the public on animal welfare. These questions will cover all animals. It is the little things we have to do that makes the big difference in our pets lives, such as vaccinations, worming, de-fleaing, neutering, proper diet and exercise.

This week we are looking at the scourge of many a teenager: acne. Yes our cats and dogs get acne just as severe as some teenagers.

Feline acne is a common problem. It is a life-long problem and is found on the lips and chin. Unlike teenagers, it is not limited to puberty. It starts when the cat is around a year and can look like blackheads on the chin and lower lip. While they may not bother your cat, they can turn into infected lumps that can be itchy and very sore. In severe cases, there may be hair loss.

The actual cause of acne is unknown but it is thought it may be caused by excessive oil from the oil glands around the hair follicles. As both male and female cats can get acne, it is thought that it is not hormonal.

How severe acne can be varies from cat to cat but you should watch out for the following. Blackheads on the chin and lower lip, and swelling on the chin. If it is very severe, you will also get hair loss, redness and severe pain.

If you think your cat has acne, bring it to your vet. There are creams, antibiotics and steroids, which can help. Some cats may get a yeast infection on their chin and a antifungal cream will do the job for the fungal infection.

Again, never self prescribe as the creams and antibacterial etc may cause your cat more harm than good and could result in your cat suffering from liver damage.

Canine acne is also found on the chin and lips. Some dogs, such as boxers and bulldogs are more prone to it. It usually flares up around five to eight months. Most dogs will improve with age, with acne disappearing at about a year.

Again, the signs to look out for are red lumps and blackheads on the chin and lips. These may burst and pus will be seen. If infected, they will be itchy and you may notice your dog scratching against furniture and along the carpet. Again, as with cats, never presume it is acne, check with a vet as other diseases have similar signs.

Treatment is usually creams, washes, antibiotics or steroids. Again do not self diagnose as a dog's skin is thinner and more sensitive than ours and you could do more damage than good.

Finally, we got a question from Carol who wanted to know if a cat can be vegetarian. The answer is 'no' because a cat is a carnivore with unique nutritional needs. He can't obtain a significant amount of required nutrients, such as taurine, protein, fatty acids, Vitamin C and niacin, from vegetables.

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