Distinguishing Cat Ringworm vs. Folliculitis: A Compara

When your feline friend's chin starts to show signs of dandruff, scabs, and hair loss, it's a clear indication that something might be amiss. These symptoms can stem from a variety of causes, with two common skin issues being ringworm (also known as fungal infection) and folliculitis.

Many cat owners might be baffled by how to differentiate between these two ailments, but fear not! It's actually quite straightforward. Let's delve into the details today to help you better understand and care for your furry companion.

What is Ringworm?

Ringworm is a skin disease caused by fungal infection, primarily by Trichophyton canis, Microsporum equinum, and Microsporum gypseum. It can affect cats of any age, though kittens and adult cats with weakened immune systems are more susceptible. Moreover, ringworm is highly contagious, capable of spreading between cats and even to humans.

What is Folliculitis?

Folliculitis in cats is usually triggered by bacterial infections, commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Cats have a bounty of sebaceous glands around their chin and mouth corners, which secrete oil. If this oil accumulates excessively, it can clog the follicles, leading to bacterial infections. Common triggers include overly greasy food, feeding with plastic bowls, not cleaning the cat bowls regularly, and hormonal imbalances.

How to Distinguish Between Ringworm and Folliculitis?

1. Visual Comparison

Ringworm: It typically causes hair loss, increased dandruff, and the formation of circular or irregularly shaped bald spots with clear boundaries. The affected area may also show red patches, bumps, and scabs.

Folliculitis: Initially, it presents as small black dots resembling human blackheads. Later stages may involve redness, swelling, and pain, along with pustules.

2. Location Differences

Ringworm: Can appear anywhere on the cat's body.

Folliculitis: More likely to affect the chin, tail, and abdomen.

3. Additional Symptoms

Ringworm: Often accompanied by itching, prompting the cat to scratch the affected area frequently.

Folliculitis: Initially, there may be no significant itching, but the fur might appear greasy. Some ringworm cases may exhibit a green fluorescence under a Wood's lamp.

Treatment for Ringworm and Folliculitis

1. Treating Ringworm

For small areas, topical antifungal treatments like Daktarin (Clotrimazole Cream) or Pipette (Tebuconazole Spray) can be applied twice to thrice daily. It's advisable to clean the area with iodine first to remove scales and scabs.

For larger areas, a medicated bath with solutions like Sulfur Sulfide or Econazole Solution can be combined with oral treatment with Itraconazole, taken once daily at a dosage of 510mg/kg.

2. Treating Folliculitis

For mild cases, cleaning the area with saline or chlorhexidine solution can help. Maintain a clean, dry, and hygienic environment, and ensure a diet low in fat and regular cleaning of the cat's bowls.

For moderate cases, applying antiseptic ointments like Erythromycin Ointment, Mupirocin Ointment, or Furadan (Oxide of Zinc Ointment) can be effective.

Severe cases may require oral antibiotics to control the infection, such as Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium or Cefadroxil Tablets.

Through this detailed explanation, you should now be wellequipped to differentiate between ringworm and folliculitis in your cat. However, it's important to remember that skin diseases can also be caused by allergies, injuries, or mite infestations. If you're unsure about the diagnosis or treatment, it's best to consult a veterinarian for a skin scraping examination to ensure your cat receives the appropriate care.