Effective Treatment for Feline Ringworm and Mites

When a cat is infested with mites, it can lead to varying degrees of skin damage and infections, which in turn create opportunities for bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens to thrive in the environment. As a result, feline ringworm and mites often coexist, with one being more predominant than the other.

If your cat is suffering from both mite and fungal infections, consider the following treatment approaches:

1. Cleaning and Disinfecting the Affected Areas

Shave the hair around the infected skin area and expose the entire affected region.

Gently wipe the area with saline solution to remove dust, secretions, and scabs, followed by a thorough disinfection using iodine.

2. Antifungal Therapy

Allow the area to dry naturally after disinfection.

Apply a sufficient amount of Pipette (Terbinafine Hydrochloride Spray), a broadspectrum antifungal medication that inhibits the synthesis of fungal cell membranes, making it highly effective against ringworm. For severe fungal infections, oral Itraconazole can be combined.

3. Preventing Secondary Infections

If the cat's skin shows signs of pustules, excessive secretion, or a large infection area, it's best to complement the treatment with antibiotics. Options include Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium or Cefadroxil, which are broadspectrum antibiotics with minimal side effects.

4. Deworming Treatment

Administer deworming medication containing pyriproxyfen, avermectin, or selamectin, such as Dipel (Pyriproxyfen and Moexiphen), Advocate, or Revolution. Treatments should be spaced every 10 to 14 days initially, and for prevention, once every 1 to 2 months.

Note: Some products marketed as nonirritant spotons claim to kill mites, but this is misleading. These are generally effective against fleas, lice, and ticks but have little effect on mites.

5. Environmental Cleaning and Disinfection

Regularly clean and disinfect your cat's living environment and daily items, especially areas like cat beds, carpets, litter boxes, and sofas.

Sunlight exposure is recommended for cat beds, as it effectively kills fungi and mites, preventing recurrent infections.

6. Nutritional Support

Feed your cat highprotein or highquality protein foods such as fish, beef, chicken breast, freezedried, and canned food to boost its immune system.

During treatment, consider supplementing with multivitamins and fish oil to aid in skin repair.

7. Wearing an Elizabethan Collar

To prevent your cat from licking the infected areas, causing further damage and spreading the bacteria, ensure it wears an Elizabethan collar throughout the treatment period. Be firm and consistent, even if your cat is initially uncomfortable.

Important Note:

Every cat is unique, and the severity of the infection can vary greatly. Treatment outcomes can differ from one cat to another.

Whenever possible, consult a veterinarian for a diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan based on your cat's specific condition.