Learn About One Common Cat Illness a Day – Ringworm in Cats

What is Cat Ringworm?

Ringworm (dermatophytosis) is a highly prevalent skin condition in cats, caused by fungi—primarily Microsporum canis (accounting for 98% of cases) and Trichophyton mentagrophytes.

Key Symptoms:

• Crusty lesions, dry scaly patches, localized hair loss (often circular or irregular), redness, and intense itching. Cats may scratch or chew the affected areas, worsening irritation.

Common Locations:
Face, paws, tail, and abdomen. Regularly part your cat’s fur to check these areas—early detection significantly eases treatment.

Why Do Cats Get Ringworm?

Ringworm spreads via fungal spores, which thrive in warm, humid environments. Poor hygiene in your cat’s living space (e.g., unwashed bedding, damp corners) increases infection risk. These spores are resilient: they can survive on surfaces for months, making rapid treatment and disinfection critical to prevent spread.

Can Ringworm Spread to Humans?

Yes, but it’s rarely severe. Most healthy adults with strong immune systems are less likely to catch it. However, people with weakened immunity (children, the elderly, or those with chronic illnesses) are more susceptible. In humans, it typically appears as itchy, red, circular rashes—easily treatable with topical antifungals.

What to Do if You’re Infected?

Don’t panic! Visit a pharmacy for over-the-counter antifungal creams like naftifine ketoconazole, butenafine, terbinafine, miconazole, ketoconazole, econazole, or clotrimazole. Apply the cream directly to the rash twice daily until symptoms clear (usually 2–4 weeks). Avoid scratching to prevent further irritation.

❗️ How to Treat Ringworm in Cats

1. Isolate the Infected Cat
   Fungal spores spread quickly, so isolate your cat in a clean, dry room—especially in multi-pet households. Use a separate litter box, food bowl, and bedding to protect other pets.
2. Deep Clean the Environment
   Disinfect all surfaces your cat touches: wash bedding in hot water with antifungal detergent, wipe floors/walls with a pet-safe fungicide (e.g., diluted bleach or veterinary-recommended sprays), and vacuum frequently to remove spores. Ensure the space stays dry—moisture fuels fungal growth.
3. Start Treatment Promptly
   Early intervention is key to preventing widespread infection:

• Clean the Affected Area: Gently wipe lesions with a cotton ball soaked in hydrogen peroxide to remove crusts and scales. For severe cases, trim fur around the area to ensure medication penetrates.
• Medication:
  • Oral: Itraconazole (5–10mg/kg daily; halve the dose for kittens). Most cats improve within a week, but treatment should last 4–6 weeks (never exceed 30 days). Note: Avoid in cats with liver disease.
  • Topical: Clotrimazole cream, applied twice daily to lesions and surrounding skin until fully healed.

4. Boost Nutrition
   Ringworm often targets cats with weak immune systems. Supplement their diet with high-quality protein (e.g., grain-free meat-based cat food, fresh-cooked chicken or fish) and add vitamin B complex to support skin health and immunity.

Extended Tips

• Prevent Recurrence: Regularly groom your cat to spot early signs, keep their environment clean, and avoid overcrowded living spaces.
• Consult a Vet if Needed: If lesions spread, your cat seems lethargic, or treatment isn’t working after a week, seek veterinary care. Severe cases may require medicated baths or stronger oral antifungals.
• Patience is Key: Ringworm treatment takes time—even if symptoms fade, continue medication as prescribed to kill all spores and prevent relapse.

While ringworm is a nuisance, with consistent care and hygiene, most cats recover fully. Stay vigilant, and your feline friend will be back to their playful self in no time!