Ringworm in cats is a very common form of skin disease that is found in both dogs and cats. Although its name makes you think otherwise, this skin disease isn’t caused by any type of worm.
Let's dive right in.
What Is Ringworm In Cats?
It’s actually caused by fungi known as Dermatophytes that feed on dead tissues found in the surface of the skin. Spreading them around the skin of the animal.
With cats, there is a certain type of fungi known as M Canis that is found with nearly 95% of all ringworm cases. Normally, cats will get the ringworm disease from contaminated objects like bedding, clippers, or another animal that already has the disease.
If there are animals in your home or around your house that have the ringworm disease, your cat could very easily contract it this way.
Use Precaution to avoid Ringworm in Cats
If you have kittens or cats that are under a year old in your home, you should always use precaution, as they are more susceptible to ringworm in cats. Kittens can easily contract the disease, especially if you allow them to go outside.
They can easily come in contact with a contaminated object or another cat that has the disease. Kittens take a long time to build their immune system up, and in the meantime they are more apt to get a common disease such as ringworm.
Common Symptoms
The most common symptoms of ringworm in cats are rough or broken hairs, or hair loss around the head or the paws. Ringworm can easily be identified by a patch of scaly skin on the body that appears itchy and inflamed.
There will also be broken hairs around the patch of scaly skin. This area is very sensitive, and you should never try to touch it, as it will hurt your cat.
Ringworm in Cats requires Immediate Care
If you notice any of the above symptoms with your pet, you should immediately schedule an appointment with your vet.
If the vet diagnosis your cat with ringworm, they may prescribe ointment or tablets. What they prescribe, however, will be determined by how serious the ringworm is.
If they prescribe tablets to your cat, you should give them with meals. Ointment on the other hand, is normally spread into the coat, topically.
Daily Basis
You should always use what your vet prescribes on a daily basis, to ensure that your cat heals. The healing process will take time, normally around six weeks or more
Cats with ringworm should be labelled as infectious. If you have children in the house, you should keep them away from your pet. Whenever you handle your cat, you should always use gloves.
Contagious
Ringworm in cats is contagious, and you should always use caution. Even though it’s a mild disease, ringworm can result in serious problems due to the slow recovery time and the fact that it’s contagious.
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