Ringworm in Cats

Ringworm is an infection that can affect cats of all ages and breeds. Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm but rather by a fungus that impacts the skin, hair, and nails.

This detailed guide aims to offer insights into ringworm in cats, including its symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures.

How Do Cats Get Ringworm?

Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection that can spread in numerous ways. Understanding these can assist in preventing the spread of this infection among cats.

Here's how ringworm spreads to cats:

1. Direct Contact with Infected Animals or Humans

• The primary method of transmission for ringworm is typically through direct interaction with a contaminated animal or person. The fungus flourishes on deceased skin, hair, and nail matter, presenting optimal circumstances for spreading through close proximity.

2. Contact with Contaminated Objects or Surfaces

• Ringworms can also spread through contact with objects or surfaces that an infected animal has touched. These comprise grooming equipment, trimmers, linens, and various items. The fungal spores can persist on these surfaces for a duration of two years, presenting a persistent threat of infection.

Signs and Symptoms of Ringworm in Cats

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of ringworms in cats is essential. It's important to note that some cats may not show any signs but still carry and transmit the infection.

The most common symptoms of ringworm in cats include:

• Circular Bald Patches: These patches often have scaly sores and typically appear as an initial sign of a ringworm infection.
• Hair Loss: This can occur in patches or affect larger areas of the cat's body.
• Skin Inflammation: The affected areas of the skin may show signs of redness and inflammation.
• Infected Claws: In instances the claws can also get infected, resulting in changes in color and potential deformities.
• Excessive Self-Grooming: Cats with ringworms might engage in grooming to alleviate the itchiness caused by the infection.

Diagnosis of Ringworm in Cats

Diagnosing ringworm in cats involves a combination of clinical observation and laboratory testing. Here’s a closer look at the process:

The first step in diagnosing ringworm in cats is observing the clinical signs. These can include circular bald patches, hair loss, skin inflammation, and infected claws. However, these signs can also be indicative of other skin conditions, so further tests are needed for confirmation.

Another method is the microscopic examination of suspected hairs. The vet will pluck a few hairs from the affected area and examine them under a microscope to look for evidence of the fungus.

One of the most reliable ways to diagnose ringworm is through a fungal culture conducted in a laboratory.  The veterinarian will carefully pluck hairs from the affected area. Send them to the lab to be grown on a medium that promotes ringworm fungus growth. Although this test may take up to three weeks for results, it remains the most accurate method for diagnosing ringworm.

Treatment for Ringworm in Cats

Treating ringworm in cats involves a multi-pronged approach that includes systemic antifungal drugs, topical treatments, and environmental decontamination. Here’s a closer look at each of these methods:

1. Systemic Antifungal Drugs

Medicines to combat fungal infections in the system are medications given orally or through injections to address infections from within. These medications function by impeding the growth of the fungus, enabling the feline's immune system to eradicate the infection. The treatment period typically lasts 4-6 weeks, although it may vary based on the infection's severity and the feline's response to treatment.

2. Topical Treatments

Local treatments encompass creams, balms, and shampoos directly applied to the affected regions of the feline's skin. These treatments aid in exterminating the fungus on the skin and hair, thus diminishing the infection's spread. 

3. Environmental Decontamination

Because the dermatophyte fungus is capable of surviving in the surroundings for extended durations, ensuring cleanliness in the environment becomes a crucial aspect of its treatment. This involves meticulous purification and sterilization of the cat's living area, along with any items it has interacted with, like bedding, grooming tools, and toys. 

It is essential to emphasize that cats can still spread the infection during the treatment, therefore it is of utmost importance to persist with all aspects of the treatment until the infection is entirely eradicated. A culture for dermatophytes is the best way to monitor a cat’s response to treatment and to determine when the infection has been entirely eradicated.

To effectively treat ringworm in felines, it is essential to adopt a holistic approach that encompasses both the management of the infection and the elimination of possible sources of reinfection within the cat's surroundings. If you have reason to believe that your cat has ringworm, it is advisable to seek the guidance of a veterinarian who can assist in formulating a suitable course of treatment.

Will Ringworm in Cats Go Away By Itself?

While it’s possible for a ringworm infection in cats to resolve on its own over time, this is not the typical or recommended course of action. Here’s why:

In some cases, a cat’s immune system may be able to fight off the ringworm infection without treatment. This process can take about three to four months. However, during this time, the cat remains contagious and can spread the infection to other animals or humans in the household.

What Happens if You Leave Ringworm Untreated?

Leaving ringworm untreated poses several risks. The contagiousness has the potential to disseminate to various regions of the feline's anatomy, resulting in more intensified indications. Furthermore, it can trigger additional health complications for the cat by giving rise to subsequent bacterial contaminations.

If you have a suspicion that your feline companion might be affected by ringworm, it is advisable to arrange a trip to your vet. This trip will enable you to validate the diagnosis and obtain suitable advice for managing the condition. Seeking assistance from a professional not only expedites the alleviation of your cat's symptoms but also minimizes the likelihood of transmitting the infection.

Prevention and Management of Ringworm in Cats

Preventing and managing ringworm in cats involves a combination of good hygiene practices, and maintaining the overall health of your cat.

Isolation of Infected Cats

If your feline has been identified with ringworm, it is crucial to separate them from other animals and individuals until they are no longer capable of transmitting the condition. This aids in averting the dissemination of the ailment.

Spread to Humans and Other Animals

One of the main concerns is that ringworms can spread from cats to humans and other animals. This transmission can occur through direct contact with an infected cat or indirectly through contact with contaminated objects or surfaces.

Humans can give their cats ringworm, and your cat can give you ringworm. It spreads across species.

Conclusion

In summary, although ringworm in cats is generally not a serious issue, it does raise concerns because it can be transmittеd to humans and other animals.

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References

1. https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/skin/c_ct_dermatophytosis
2. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/ringworm-serious-readily-treatable-affliction
3. https://cats.com/ringworm-in-cats
4. https://www.hillspet.com/cat-care/healthcare/ringworm-in-cats