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Have you ever seen a cat with those adorable little specks on its nose? Surprisingly these are freckles! Just like humans, cats can have freckles too but why does your cat have freckles? Unlike people, cats don’t develop freckles in the sun, and most are born with them, but why?
Cat’s freckles are usually either black or dark brown and are most noticeable on your cat’s nose and lips, as well as sometimes inside their mouth if you can get a peep. They will be flat to the skin and just the same as in humans, harmless and go unnoticed by your cat. They can develop over time in middle-aged and older cats, or be there from birth and this tends to be more common in cats with the ‘red gene’ like ginger toms, calico cats and tortoiseshells.
Freckles in cats are called Lentigo or Lentigines and are genetic – coming from an increased number of epidermal melanocytes in the skin. These produce melanin and create the cute dark spots or freckles you see on your cat. Freckles in cats are nothing to worry about, and just make your little creature even more adorable. Only if the spots seem sore or irritated would there be cause for concern and time for a check-up with the vet. If spots appear raised, red or on areas other than the nose and mouth and appear suddenly, definitely get them checked out. Never delay a call to the vet if there’s anything you’re worried about with your furball.
Your cat’s freckles make them unique. Simple freckles are just genetic and nothing to worry about, so enjoy the cuteness overload and feel free to share photos of your freckled friends with us, we’ll never get bored of cat pics in the Republic!
