Melanie's Blog What is ringworm in cats? Skin infections like ringworm are brought on by fungi. It is one of the most prevalent skin conditions in cats and is also referred to as dermatophytosis.
Microsporum canis is the name of the fungus that causes ringworm in cats, and it can be transmitted both from cats to humans and from cats to other cats.
Ringworm is a skin ailment brought on by a fungus, not a worm, as is frequently assumed.
Signs and Symptoms
The most typical symptom is a circular, scaly patch of skin where there is hair loss. The patch could be red, or it could be paler or darker than the skin around it.
The patch’s hair could either be completely gone or broken off at the base. Itching, redness, and crusty sores are other ringworm symptoms in cats.
How is Ringworm in Cats Diagnosed?
Your veterinarian will likely take a skin scrape from the affected region and analyze it under a microscope if your cat exhibits symptoms of ringworm.
This will demonstrate the existence of the fungus spores that cause ringworm. Additionally, your veterinarian might remove a hair sample from the afflicted area and send it to a lab for additional analysis.
How Can Be Treated?
Antifungal medicine, which can be administered orally or topically in the form of a cream or ointment, is typically used to treat ringworm in cats. To lessen the severity of the infection, your vet may also advise bathing your cat with a specific antifungal shampoo.
Your veterinarian may in rare circumstances also advise using a specialized ultraviolet light to eradicate the fungus.
How To Prevent It?
Keeping your cat’s environment clean is the greatest approach to avoiding ringworm in cats. Be sure to maintain a clean and clutter-free environment for your cat’s bedding and litter box. To stop the spread of ringworm, keep your cats apart if you have more than one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ringworm contagious?
Yes, It’s highly contagious and can be spread from one cat to another, as well as from cats to humans.
How long does it take for the ringworm to go away?
The amount of time it takes for ringworm to go away depends on the severity of the infection and the type of treatment used. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months for the infection to clear up.
Can I treat my Cat’s ringworm at home?
No, home treatment for your cat’s ringworm is not advised. For a precise diagnosis and the best course of treatment, it’s crucial to take your cat to the doctor.
Conclusion
Cats frequently develop ringworm, a skin condition brought on by the fungus Microsporum canis. A circular, scaly patch of hair loss on the skin is the most typical sign.
Antifungal medication and a special antifungal shampoo are typically used as ringworm treatments for cats. Keeping your cat’s bedding and litter box clean, as well as maintaining proper hygiene, are the best ways to prevent ringworm in cats.
It’s critical to take your cat to the doctor for a precise diagnosis and appropriate treatment if you suspect that it may have ringworm.
