Understanding Cat Ringworm: Causes & Prevention Tips

Why Do Cats Get Ringworm?

1. Ringworm in cats is highly contagious. The skin fungus responsible for ringworm produces spores that are easily dispersed and incredibly resilient, surviving in the natural environment for many years. Just one spore coming into contact with a cat's damaged skin can lead to infection. This is why cats that have recently been shaved or have open wounds are more susceptible to catching ringworm. Healthy, intact skin usually doesn't become infected even when exposed to these spores.

2. During the kitten stage, poor living conditions can contribute to the development of ringworm. Breast milk provides some antibodies that can help kittens avoid infection, but when they are introduced to a new home, they may experience stress, which can weaken their immune system, making it easier for ringworm to take hold.

3. Adult cats, especially those with compromised immune systems, are more prone to infection from Microsporum canis or Trichophyton mentagrophytes.

Cats infected with ringworm may experience severe itching, leading them to scratch on various objects. Over time, this can lead to flaking and bald spots. It's more common in undernourished or weak cats. Increasing nutrient intake, particularly B vitamins, can help prevent and aid in the recovery of cats already infected with ringworm.

How to Treat Ringworm?

While ringworm can be a challenging condition to treat, it's not as daunting as it may seem. Complete recovery requires careful and consistent care over a period of time. However, it's important for cat owners to consider whether they have the time and energy to properly care for their pets. If you've already brought a cat home, it's crucial to be responsible and committed to its care.

1. If you suspect your cat has ringworm and are not confident in treating it yourself, it's best to take them to a reputable veterinary clinic for professional help.

2. Ringworm is a fungal skin disease caused by Microsporum canis, so the goal is to eliminate the fungus from your cat's body. This can be achieved through bathing with antiseptic solutions like iodine or povidoneiodine diluted in water, and cleaning thoroughly. For severe cases, this may need to be done twice a week.

3. Scabs from ringworm must be softened with alcohol or povidoneiodine before they are removed and medication applied.

4. To prevent secondary infection or the spread of ringworm, cats should be fitted with a face mask to avoid scratching and spreading the infection.

5. If multiple cats are found to have ringworm, it's important to take precautions and immediately supplement with B vitamins.

I do not recommend oral medications for treatment (since they are designed to inhibit bacterial growth, but they do not directly kill the fungus and can have side effects).

Yes, ringworm can be transmitted to humans. However, not everyone who comes into contact with a cat with ringworm will become infected. Only a small percentage of individuals with weakened immune systems are at risk. This includes children, the elderly, HIV+ patients, those undergoing chemotherapy, individuals with autoimmune diseases, and those who have received organ transplants or are taking immunosuppressive drugs.

Generally, if you have already been in contact with a cat diagnosed with ringworm but have not been infected, there's a high likelihood that you won't be infected. Infection requires a break in the skin, so wearing gloves when handling a cat with ringworm is crucial for preventing transmission. If you develop symptoms that resemble ringworm, it's important to see a dermatologist promptly.

How to Prevent Ringworm?

One of the biggest challenges in environmental disinfection is finding a product that is effective against both bacteria and spores. A 1:10 dilution of chlorinebased disinfectants can kill contaminated surfaces, and when used correctly, it can eliminate about 80% of fungal spores. Typically, it's recommended to clean the surface with general cleaning products three times before using the chlorinebased disinfectant, allowing it to wet the surface for 10 minutes to ensure the spores are destroyed.