Ringworm in cats
What is Ringworm ?
Ringworm (feline dermatophytosis) is among the most frequently occurring skin disorders affecting the worldwide cat population. It can affect both cats and humans. Despite its name, it has nothing to do with worms, but instead refers to the circular, red rash that the infection can cause. It is caused by a type of fungus Microsporum canis, which is closely related to the fungus that causes athlete’s foot [Source: Mayo Clinic]
Symptoms of Ringworm in Cats The most common symptoms of ringworm in cats include:
Circular, red, scaly patches on the skin
Bald patches or hair loss
Itching or scratching
Crusty or scaly skin (Source: ASPCA)
How can Ringworm be diagnosed?
A quick way to screen for them, if your cats show suspicious leison’s , random patches of hair loss or any of the above symptoms is to use a Wood’s Lamp. Because the common strains of Ringworm that infects cats will glow ( technical term is fluorscense) under a Wood’s lamp. (Wood’s lamp is source of UV light in the wavelengths 320-450nm) . If your cat has suspicious leisions, and the leision glows under a Wood’s lamp, then you can assume it is most likely Ringworm. However, if it does not glow under a Wood’s lamp, you cannot 100% rule out Ringworm.
The sure way to diagnose Ringworm is through a rapid PCR test, or a fungal culture test ( that can take up to 2 weeks to come back with a result of negative).
How is Ringworm Spread?
Ringworm is easily spread through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated objects, such as bedding, toys, and grooming tools. (Source: ASPCA) Cats with weakened immune systems or those who live in crowded conditions, such as animal shelters, are more susceptible to the infection. (Source: PetMD)
Treatment of Ringworm in Cats If your cat has been diagnosed with ringworm, your veterinarian will prescribe antifungal medication to clear up the infection. In severe cases, it may also be necessary to clip the affected area to make it easier for the medication to penetrate the skin. (Source: PetMD)
In addition to medication, it is important to thoroughly clean and disinfect any objects that may have come into contact with the infected cat, such as bedding and toys. This will help prevent the spread of the infection to other cats or humans.
Prevention of Ringworm in Cats The best way to prevent ringworm in cats is to maintain good hygiene practices and to keep your cat's environment clean. This includes regularly washing bedding, toys, and grooming tools, and avoiding overcrowding of cats. If you have multiple cats, it is also important to separate any infected cats until they have been treated and are no longer contagious. (Source: PetMD)
If you have a weakened immune system or are pregnant, it is best to avoid direct contact with infected cats and to leave the cleaning and disinfecting to someone else. (Source: PetMD)
In conclusion, ringworm is a common fungal infection that can affect both cats and humans. If your cat has been diagnosed with ringworm, it is important to understand what it is and how to prevent it from spreading. With proper treatment and preventative measures, your cat can make a full recovery and be back to its happy, playful self in no time.