Effective Treatment for Feline Ringworm: How to Manage

What is Ringworm in Cats?

Ringworm in cats is a common skin disease that often affects cats that are malnourished or have weakened immune systems. It's not uncommon for new cat owners to discover that their kitten has developed ringworm shortly after adoption, making it one of the most frequent cases.

There are two types of fungi that can infect cats: Microsporum canis and Trichophyton mentagrophytes, with 98% of cases being caused by Microsporum canis. As the condition progresses, it can develop into a more irritating form known as "money ringworm," which appears as red, scaly patches with crusty dandruff, resembling a copper coin.

Cats living in humid and warm environments are more susceptible to ringworm, particularly during the spring and summer months in the southern regions.

Contrary to popular belief, ringworm is not as terrifying as it sounds. It's akin to a skin allergy in humans. With proper treatment, most cases clear up within two weeks to a month.

How to Identify Ringworm in Cats?

The simplest way to diagnose ringworm is through a Wood's lamp examination, which causes the skin to glow green. Symptoms include bald patches with rough textures, red, raised skin, and scaly crusts. Cats may also frequently scratch at the affected areas.

How to Prevent the Spread of Ringworm?

1. Isolation: Keep the affected cat isolated in a cage or a secluded balcony to prevent the infection from spreading to other cats and humans, especially in households with multiple pets.

2. Nutritional Supplementation: Provide your cat with essential nutrients, including vitamins, supplements, and meat (such as vitamin B complex, Llysine, and meat) to boost their immune system.

3. Environmental Hygiene: Disinfect your home thoroughly, and continue to sanitize the environment after isolating the cat, focusing on areas where the cat spends most of its time, such as beds, nests, and furniture. Remember to expose the cleaned areas to sunlight after disinfection.

4. Monitoring: Pay close attention to your cat's scratching behavior and ensure that the Elizabethan collar is worn after applying medication to prevent the cat from licking the affected areas, which could lead to ingestion of the medication and potential injury. Encourage your cat to bask in the sun regularly.

How to Treat Ringworm?

1. Topical Ointments: Use antifungal creams such as Clotrimazole Cream or Pityriasis Ointment, along with alcohol, cotton swabs, and disposable gloves. Administer Composite Vitamin B Tablets (once or twice a day).

2. Inspection: Check for any other areas with ringworm and shave the affected area and surrounding fur to prevent the medication from sticking to the fur around the wound.

3. Application: Wear disposable gloves and use a cotton swab to apply alcohol to the affected area and surrounding skin. Soften and gently remove any crusts or scales. After cleaning the area, apply the ointment to the wound.

4. Precautions: Always put on an Elizabethan collar after treatment to prevent the cat from licking the affected area, ensuring the medication stays effective and the wound heals properly.