Ringworm, despite its name, is not caused by a worm but by a fungal infection. It’s a common issue among cats, and while it may seem alarming, it’s treatable with proper care and attention. The infection is highly contagious, not only for cats but also for humans and other pets in the household. In this blog, we’ll cover how to spot the signs of ringworm in cats, how it spreads, and the best ways to treat and manage it effectively.
What Is Ringworm?
Ringworm is a superficial fungal infection caused by dermatophytes, which thrive on dead skin, hair, and nails. In cats, it can lead to bald patches, scaly skin, and a variety of other symptoms. Though it can affect any cat, it’s more common in kittens, cats with weakened immune systems, and those living in crowded or unsanitary conditions.
Common Signs of Ringworm in Cats
Recognizing ringworm early is crucial to preventing its spread. The symptoms can vary, but here are the most common signs to watch for:
1. Circular Bald Spots
One of the most characteristic signs of ringworm is the presence of round, hairless patches on your cat’s skin. These spots may appear anywhere on the body, though they are most commonly found on the ears, face, and paws. The skin around the patches may appear red, inflamed, and slightly scaly.
2. Flaky, Crusty Skin
Affected areas of your cat’s skin may become dry and flaky, sometimes forming scabs. This flaky skin may look like dandruff, but it’s an indication that your cat’s skin is battling the fungal infection.
3. Itching and Scratching
Your cat may start scratching, biting, or licking more frequently in the affected areas due to discomfort. Excessive grooming can lead to even more hair loss and irritation.
4. Thickened, Red, or Inflamed Skin
In some cases, the infection can cause the skin to become thickened, red, or inflamed, especially if the condition is left untreated for an extended period.
5. Visible Lesions or Sores
As the infection progresses, ringworm can cause open sores on the skin. These sores are often circular in shape and may have a raised border, with the center looking scaly or crusted.
6. Changes in Nail Health
While less common, ringworm can affect your cat’s claws, causing them to become brittle, cracked, or deformed. If you notice your cat’s nails looking unhealthy, it’s worth considering whether ringworm might be the cause.
How Does Ringworm Spread?
Ringworm is highly contagious and can spread in several ways:
-
Direct Contact: Cats can spread the infection through direct contact with an infected cat or another animal.
-
Environmental Contamination: The spores of the fungus can live in the environment for a long time. They can be spread through bedding, grooming tools, furniture, or even carpets. If your cat comes into contact with any contaminated object or surface, they may become infected.
-
Human to Pet: Humans can also carry the spores on their clothing, shoes, or hands. If you’ve had contact with an infected animal, you may unknowingly transmit the fungus to your cat.
How to Diagnose Ringworm in Cats
If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s important to get a professional diagnosis. While ringworm’s appearance is fairly distinctive, other skin conditions can mimic the symptoms, such as flea infestations, allergies, or bacterial infections.
A veterinarian will usually confirm ringworm through a few methods:
-
Wood’s Lamp Examination: Some strains of the fungus will fluoresce under a black light, which can be a helpful diagnostic tool.
-
Fungal Culture: A fungal culture is the most accurate test. Your vet will collect a sample of your cat’s fur or skin and grow the fungus in a lab to confirm the diagnosis.
-
Microscopic Examination: Your vet may also examine the skin sample under a microscope to check for fungal spores.
Treatment for Ringworm in Cats
Once diagnosed, the good news is that ringworm is treatable. Treatment typically involves a combination of topical and oral therapies to eliminate the infection and prevent it from spreading. Here’s a closer look at what that treatment may involve:
1. Topical Antifungal Treatment
For mild to moderate cases, topical treatments such as antifungal creams, ointments, or medicated shampoos may be prescribed. These can be applied directly to the affected areas of your cat’s skin. Common antifungal medications include clotrimazole, miconazole, or ketoconazole.
Be sure to follow your vet’s instructions on how often to apply the treatment and for how long. Even if the visible signs improve, you must complete the full course to prevent reinfection.
2. Oral Antifungal Medications
In more severe cases, or if the infection is widespread, oral antifungal medications such as terbinafine or griseofulvin may be necessary. These medications work by targeting the fungus from within your cat’s system. They’re typically prescribed for a few weeks to ensure the fungus is fully eradicated.
3. Environmental Decontamination
Because ringworm spores can live in the environment for a long time, it’s essential to thoroughly clean your home while your cat is undergoing treatment. Wash bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water, and disinfect furniture, floors, and other surfaces with an antifungal cleaner. Regularly vacuum your home to remove any spores that may have settled in carpets.
4. Isolation
To prevent the spread of the infection to other pets or humans, isolate the infected cat in a single room until they are no longer contagious. Be sure to wash your hands and change your clothes if you’ve been in contact with your infected cat to prevent transmission to other animals.
5. Supportive Care
If your cat’s skin is irritated from excessive scratching, your vet may recommend soothing treatments like medicated shampoos or moisturizing ointments to help alleviate discomfort.
Preventing Ringworm
Preventing ringworm can be difficult due to how contagious the fungus is, but there are some steps you can take to minimize the risk:
-
Keep Your Cat Indoors: Outdoor cats are more likely to encounter other infected animals or contaminated environments. Keeping your cat indoors can reduce the chances of them coming into contact with the infection.
-
Regular Grooming: Regular grooming can help spot early signs of ringworm and keep your cat’s skin and fur healthy.
-
Regular Vet Check-ups: Routine veterinary visits can help catch health issues like ringworm early, especially in young cats or those with weakened immune systems.
When to See a Vet
If you notice any of the signs mentioned earlier or suspect your cat may have ringworm, contact a veterinarian immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing the infection from worsening and spreading.
At Norgate Animal Hospital, we’re here to help with expert care for your pets. If you’re concerned about your cat’s health or suspect they may have ringworm, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call us at 604-980-2222 to schedule an appointment.
