Cat videos are something people generally love, but there is one type of clip that is starting to trend more and more online, prompting vets to issue a warning.
You’ve probably heard of the grotesque obsession with ‘pimple popping’ videos before, and now a feline version of the practice seems to be gaining traction.
Currently, #catpimples has garnered over 20 million views, with the ‘tutorials’ involving the Sphynx cat, a species of hairless cat.
In one of the most popular videos, TikTok user is seen using her fingers (and acrylic nails!) to unclog her kitty’s chin pores as it lies perfectly still.
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The breed may be particularly prone to pimples due to its lack of fur, which absorbs acne-accelerating oil, but vets have warned against the practice.
“This is definitely a no-no,” Veterinarians.org vet, Athena Gaffud, shared with 9Honey Pets.
“Cat pimples or more appropriately called cat acne is often a result of sebum or keratin overproduction causing plugged hair follicles and may look like a pimple, blackhead, or red bump.
“Popping it is definitely not safe as it may progress to a bacterial infection worsening the case, and causing more pain, irritation, and discomfort to cats.”
Instead, Gaffud says daily cleaning of the affected area with mild cleansers is the better option.
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While some of the videos received praise and interest from some people, many also questioned the practice in the comments.
“I literally thought this was an old lady’s foot at first,” one person said.
“Well so much for me getting a sphynx now I cannot tolerate popping anyone’s pimples,” another wrote.
“My cat would impale me before she’d let me do this,” another said, while a fourth pointed out: “This looks like it hurts the cat.”
Speaking to Newsweek, US veterinarian Dr. Jessica Taylor also confirmed the process would likely hurt the animal.
“Picking or squeezing lesions can worsen acne, and can ultimately cause pain for your pet, meaning that the human and pet bond may suffer,”Dr Taylor told the publication.
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