Lentigo in cats: symptoms, causes and treatments

The lentigo in cats is a common dermatological condition characterized by the presence of small, flat and brownish spots on the skin, particularly around the lips, nose and margins of the eyelid. Unlike humans, where lentiginos can generate concerns about skin health, in cats, these spots are typically harmless and purely a cosmetic problem. They are more commonly observed in cats with lighter layer colors, but they can occur in cats of any type of fur.

This is what you should know about the symptoms, causes and treatments for the condition.

Lentigo symptoms in cats

The lentigo manifests mainly as small and darkly pigmented spots, similar to pecsas in humans. These spots are usually circular or irregularly and can vary in size from a point point to several millimeters in diameter. The most common areas in which they can notice that these points include around the lips, in the nose and along the edges of the ears. Although less common, they can also appear in gums, eyelids or even in the skin of the abdomen.

In cats, the lentigo generally begins to appear in adulthood and can increase in number as his cat ages. Unlike other skin conditions, lentigo spots are flat and do not cause any discomfort, such as itching, pain or irritation, to cats. They simply present themselves as a cosmetic difference, which should not affect the quality of life of their pet. However, it is crucial to observe any change in the points, including rapid growth or development of texture, since it could indicate a differently and potentially more serious condition that requires veterinary attention.

Causes of Lentigo in Cats

The exact cause of the lentigo in cats is not well understood, but it is believed that it is linked to genetics. As a result, the condition is more frequent in certain colors or cat patterns. Orange, ginger, calicó and Tortoisehell cats seem to be more predisposed to develop these points. In addition, the condition tends to occur more frequently in cats with light or thin coats, possibly because pigmentation is more visible against its skin.

Despite its appearance, the lentigo does not result from sun exposure, a common erroneous idea due to its similarity with the freckles induced by humans in humans. However, Some researchers He believes that the genetic composition of ginger cats and their descendants can be unstable, leading to genetic alterations that cause greater melanin production. Melanin, produced by melanocyte cells, plays a fundamental role in determining skin and hair color.

To diagnose lentigo, his veterinarian will closely inspect the pigmented spots on his cat’s skin. They could use a dermatoscope, a special increase tool, to examine the points more closely. In addition, your veterinarian may ask about your cat’s medical history, exposure to sunlight and any recent change in the appearance of the points. To rule out other conditions, such as skin infections, fungal infections or skin cancer, the veterinarian can perform a biopsy, taking a small sample of the affected area for laboratory analysis. This step is crucial to ensure that dark spots are lentigo and do not indicate a more serious health problem.

Treatments for lentigo in cats

Since the lentigo in cats is a benign condition, treatment is not typically necessary. The main approach must be to monitor the points for any change that deviates from its original appearance. If you notice any rapid growth, changes in color or shape, or if the spots rise or irritate, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian. These changes could be indicative of a skin condition as melanoma. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are key to successful management.

For cosmetic reasons, some owners may ask about treatment options to lighten or eliminate points. However, most veterinarians advise against the search for such measures due to the unnecessary risk of discomfort or complications of cosmetic procedures in animals. Instead, the best course of action is to adopt the unique appearance of its kitten. That said, remember to schedule regular well -being controls with your veterinarian to catch any potential health problem from the beginning.