Black Crusts on Cat Ringworm: Severe or Healing?
When a cat's skin becomes infected and triggers an inflammatory response, the body initiates a series of repair mechanisms. As treatment progresses, the infected skin area begins to heal. During this healing process, you might notice the formation of black scabs. These scabs are typically the result of blood clotting, forming a crust, or keratinization products produced by the skin as it repairs itself.
Q: Is it serious if a cat's ringworm shows black scabs, or does it mean it's healing?
A: Neither!
The scabs are simply a common sign of the skin's keratin layer being damaged. They serve to protect the skin from external harmful bacteria and fungi, but they also hide these pathogens on the skin's surface and can block topical medications, thereby affecting their effectiveness.
Moreover, if the medication irritates the skin or the cat licks or scratches the affected area frequently, the skin may turn black and thicken. This is not a sign of improvement or deterioration; it's merely a "side effect" left behind after the skin has been irritated.
Q: How should you handle black scabs on a cat's ringworm?
If you need to apply topical medication to treat the cat's ringworm, it's generally recommended to first remove the scabs to ensure the medication can fully reach the pathogens on the skin surface.
However, do not pick at the scabs aggressively. Instead, you can use warm water, physiological saline, or iodine solution to moisten the area, wait for the scabs to soften, and then gently remove them with a pair of tweezers or a cotton swab.
▲ During treatment, it's important to put the cat in an Elizabethan collar to prevent it from licking or scratching the affected area, which could lead to further skin damage.
If the topical medication is not effective, or if there are signs of skin breakdown or severe hyperpigmentation, you may need to switch to oral medication.
Here are some specific treatment options:
✔ Itraconazole: Administered once daily, at a dose of 5 to 10 mg/kg, for a week followed by a week off. This medication can cause liver damage, so it's only suitable for cats over 3 months old. It should not be used in pregnant females or cats with liver dysfunction.
✔ Fish Oil: Follow the dosage instructions on the product. You can add it to your cat's food or treats. Fish oil has excellent antiinflammatory and hairenhancing properties, can reduce skin infections, and promote skin repair.
✔ Adequate Vitamin B (Vitamin B Complex Solution): Given once to twice daily, it's generally recommended to mix it directly into your cat's food. Vitamin B3 can suppress skin inflammation and improve hyperkeratosis and hyperpigmentation issues. Vitamin B2 promotes cell metabolism, regulates skin oil secretion, and is beneficial for your cat's skin repair and healing.
In summary, black scabs are usually a normal part of the healing process, but this doesn't mean you can let your guard down. As a pet owner, you should adjust the treatment plan as needed. While treating your cat with medication, remember to also provide proper nutrition and maintain a clean living environment.
