Can your cat get ringworm? Humans can get this common fungal skin infection - but what about your feline friend? If your cat has a suspicious spot on their skin or you just want to know more about prevention, take a look at these top feline ringworm questions.
What Is Ringworm?
Even though the name includes the word worm, this feline disease isn't parasitic. Also known as feline dermatophytosis, ringworm is a fungal infection characterized by circular rash rings on the cat's skin. Some cats may not have noticeable or marked rings with this fungal infection. Instead, the cat may have localized patches of redness or irritated skin.
How Do Cats Get Ringworm?
Other worms enter a cat's system through food, the environment, or another animal. Again, ringworm isn't a parasitic worm. This means ringworm has another mode of infection. The microscopic fungi that cause ringworm typically start in the soil. But the microorganisms may not stay outside. The hardy spores can move and go into indoor and outdoor (non-soil) settings via animals.
If your cat has ringworm, they likely caught it from another animal or infected items. These items could include soft bedding, food or water dishes, or anything else that has come into contact with the hair or skin cells of another infected animal. While any cat can get ringworm, very young, old, long-haired, and immunocompromised animals are most likely to contract this infection.
What Are the Symptoms of Ringworm in a Cat?
Some cats will have round ring-like spots on their skin. Other possible skin issues include redness, flaking, or bald patches of fur. Mild ringworm may look like dandruff in your cat's fur. While the rings or lesions can occur almost anywhere, you'll most likely see the patches on your cat's forelimbs, ears, or head.
Should You Call the Vet for Ringworm?
Like other feline illnesses and infections, ringworm requires a professional diagnosis. Even though many cats experience symptoms with this fungal condition, some may not have noticeable signs. The veterinarian will take a health history and examine your pet. If they confirm ringworm, they will recommend a treatment plan.
What Is the Treatment for Ringworm in Cats?
A mild case of ringworm could possibly resolve without medication. But this doesn't mean you shouldn't call the vet or follow their treatment recommendations. Failure to treat ringworm could leave your cat chronically uncomfortable. Itchiness and irritation could result in bald patches of fur that leave your pet's skin completely exposed.
The vet may prescribe an oral medication, topical ointment, or shampoo to treat the fungal infection. After treatment, the vet will need to recheck your pet. They may look at your cat's fur with an ultraviolet light, inspect their coat or skin, or take skin cell cultures.
Along with treating your pet, wash all bedding, bowls, or anything else your cat came in contact with. Talk to the vet about the best methods and products necessary to remove the fungal spores from these items. A quick dip in water or a mild suds with hand soap won't eradicate the infection. Clean other areas of your home, such as the floors and rugs. The fungal spores can live on the hairs or skin cells your cat sheds onto these areas.
Can Humans and Other Pets Get Ringworm from a Cat?
Simply stated - yes. Your cat can give you, your other cats, your dog, your kids, or other household members ringworm. This makes it essential to treat the fungal infection promptly and completely.
Do you think your cat may have ringworm or another skin condition? Contact
Pet Medical Center of Vero Beach for more information.
