How Often to Apply Treatment for Feline Ringworm? Faste
Ringworm in cats is a particularly stubborn skin condition, which means the treatment process can be quite lengthy. Even if the infection is not widespread, it typically requires 2 to 3 weeks to heal completely. If detected late, it may take several months to fully recover.
When treating ringworm in cats, some pet owners might be unsure about the proper medication usage, such as how often to apply the medication, whether more frequent applications will speed up recovery, and what else to consider when applying the medicine. Today, let's delve into these questions and provide some clarity.
1. How Often Should You Apply Ringworm Medication to Your Cat?
Ringworm treatment often involves topical antifungal medications, such as Dasatin (ketokonazole cream), Pipette (terbinafine hydrochloride spray), and clotrimazole cream. Most of these medications are applied 2 to 3 times a day, while some can be applied up to 3 to 5 times daily.
Every tube of ointment comes with instructions, detailing the drug's ingredients, function, and application method. It's crucial to follow these instructions carefully. Avoid increasing or decreasing the frequency of use without consulting the label, as insufficient application may hinder the desired effect, while overuse can irritate the cat's skin and potentially lead to fungal resistance, which could worsen the condition.
2. What Else Should You Be Mindful Of When Applying Medication to Your Cat?
● Cleaning and Disinfection: Although topical antifungal treatments are gentler than oral medications, they can still irritate the skin. Therefore, before each application, it's essential to clean the affected area with saline solution or iodine to remove any inflammatory secretions and leftover medication. This helps prevent hyperpigmentation and excessive keratinization.
● Wearing an Elizabethan Collar: Cats may excessively lick the antifungal medication, leading to chronic poisoning and reducing its effectiveness. This can exacerbate skin damage and spread the infection. Therefore, it's important to keep your cat wearing an Elizabethan collar during treatment to prevent overlicking or scratching.
● Personal Protection: Ringworm can be transmitted between cats and to humans, especially those with weakened immune systems. Always wear disposable gloves when applying medication and wash your hands thoroughly afterward. Also, remember to disinfect clothing and other items.
● Completing the Course: Ringworm can recur easily, so even if the condition improves, it's vital not to stop treatment prematurely. Continue applying medication for an additional week after the fungal spores on the skin have disappeared to reinforce healing.
● Monitoring Progress: Keep a close eye on your cat's skin recovery during treatment. If the condition worsens or severe adverse reactions occur, seek medical attention promptly and adjust the treatment plan under a veterinarian's guidance.
In summary, the key to treating ringworm effectively lies in adhering to the medication's instructions, managing the timing and dosage appropriately. Additionally, maintaining personal hygiene and cleaning your living environment are crucial. By doing so, you can help your cat overcome this illness and return to good health.
