Why Does My Cat Have Black Spots in Their Mouth?

lentigo in cats

Why Does My Cat Have Black Spots in Their Mouth?

Have you ever noticed small black or dark brown spots in your cat’s mouth—on their lips, gums, or tongue—and wondered if they’re normal? These spots might look unusual, but in many cases, they are caused by a harmless condition called lentigo. Let’s explore what lentigo in cats is, why it occurs, and when you should consult your veterinarian.

What is Lentigo?

Lentigo is a benign condition that causes the appearance of small, dark spots on a cat’s skin or mucous membranes, including inside their mouth. These spots, called lentigines, are the result of an increased number of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment in the skin.

Lentigo does not cause pain, discomfort, or itchiness, and it is purely a cosmetic change. It’s the feline equivalent of freckles in humans, though the spots do not fade with time or sunlight exposure.

Who Develops Lentigo?

Lentigo is most commonly seen in:

  • Orange, calico, or tortoiseshell cats: These coat colors seem to have a genetic predisposition to lentigo.
  • Young adults to older cats: Lentigo often first appears in young adult cats and may increase in size or number as they age.

Both male and female cats can develop lentigo, and the condition is not associated with any particular breed.

Where Does Lentigo in Cats Appear?

The dark spots associated with lentigo are usually found on:

  • The lips
  • The gums
  • The tongue
  • Inside the cheeks
  • Around the eyes or nose

These spots are flat, dark brown to black, and may increase in size or number over time.

Why Does Lentigo Occur?

Lentigo is a natural result of pigmentation changes in a cat’s skin or mucous membranes. The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but it is believed to be hereditary. Lentigo is not caused by an illness, infection, or environmental factors, making it harmless and non-contagious.

When to Be Concerned About Black Spots

While lentigo itself is benign, it’s essential to distinguish it from other potential causes of pigmentation changes in your cat’s mouth. You should contact your veterinarian if you notice any of the following:

  • Raised spots: Lentigo spots are flat, so raised or lumpy areas could indicate a different condition.
  • Ulceration or bleeding: These symptoms might suggest infection, injury, or even oral cancer.
  • Rapid changes in size or shape: Lentigines are usually stable or slow-growing, so sudden changes warrant investigation.
  • Other symptoms: Drooling, bad breath, reluctance to eat, or pawing at the mouth could point to an oral health issue unrelated to lentigo.

Differentiating Lentigo in Cats from Other Conditions

While lentigo is harmless, black or dark spots in your cat’s mouth could occasionally be related to:

  • Oral melanoma: A form of skin cancer that can appear as dark or black spots.
  • Fungal or bacterial infections: May cause discoloration of the gums or tongue.
  • Dental disease: Can lead to darkened areas around the gums due to tartar buildup or infection.

If you’re unsure, a quick examination by your veterinarian can confirm whether the spots are lentigo or something requiring treatment.

Living with Lentigo

If your cat is diagnosed with lentigo, there’s no need for treatment or lifestyle changes. The condition is purely cosmetic and does not affect your cat’s health or well-being. However, it’s always a good idea to monitor any changes in your cat’s appearance or behavior and maintain regular veterinary checkups to ensure their overall health.

The Bottom Line

Black spots in your cat’s mouth are often caused by lentigo, a harmless and natural condition. While it may look unusual, lentigo is simply a unique characteristic that adds to your cat’s charm. If you’re ever uncertain about a change in your cat’s appearance, a quick visit to your veterinarian can provide peace of mind and ensure your feline friend stays happy and healthy.

For questions about your cat’s oral health or to schedule a checkup, contact your veterinarian today.

 

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (01/23/2025) Photo by Fernando Vega on Unsplash