Symptoms & How to Distinguish Cat Ringworm: A Guide

Section 1: Initial Symptoms of Feline Ringworm

 When cats first contract ringworm, they may experience itching in certain areas of their body. This leads to the formation of small, itchy bumps. To alleviate the discomfort, cats often scratch these areas, causing the red bumps to enlarge and turn into circular ringworm patches. At this stage, cats may begin to exhibit symptoms of local hair loss or baldness. The initial symptoms of ringworm are most commonly found on a cat's face and back. Ringworm can be quite painful for cats, as the affected areas are very itchy, prompting them to rub against various objects in search of relief.

Section 2: Treatment and Prevention of Feline Ringworm

1. Treatment for Mild Ringworm

For cats with earlystage ringworm symptoms, and when the patches are not too numerous or large, owners can carefully examine their pets while wearing gloves to locate all affected areas. A combination of a spray (Furnone spray) and Fucant soft cream can be used to treat the cat. If the patches continue to expand and more appear on the body, it is best to take the cat to a veterinary clinic to have the fur shaved and to receive medication as advised by the veterinarian.

2. Treatment for Mild to Moderate Ringworm

Begin by carefully trimming the fur around the affected areas, ensuring not to scratch the cat's skin. Then, apply a solution of lysine iodine to the area above the ringworm patches. After spraying with Furnone spray for skin antibacterial and antifungal properties, wait about 15 minutes before applying the cream. This combination can effectively kill bacteria and relieve itching, while also preventing the spread of the patches. After applying the medication, place an Elizabethan collar on the cat to prevent it from licking the drugs. It is also important to note that ringworm can be transmitted to humans, so owners should wash their hands and arms thoroughly after treating their pets and apply a personal preventive ointment.

3. Isolation Treatment

Once a cat is infected with ringworm, regardless of whether there are other pets in the household, owners should isolate the affected cat. This is not an act of cruelty but a crucial step in treating the cat and preventing secondary infections. If there are other pets in the home, they should be sprayed with catspecific spray as a preventive measure to avoid crossinfection.

4. Auxiliary Treatment

a. Provide the cat with a nutritious diet to boost its immune system. The presence of ringworm indicates that the cat's immune system is weak. Owners should feed their pets healthy, nutritious food, such as vitamins and catspecific lecithin.

b. Spend time taking the cat outdoors to bask in the sun, as sunlight's ultraviolet rays can act as a杀菌 agent, benefiting the cat's condition. Don't be lazy for the sake of your cat's health!

Dr. Oxygen Pet温馨提示: Treating ringworm is a lengthy process. Although the disease may be unsightly, it does not threaten life. We hope owners will show their cats patience and help them through this difficult time.