Effective Solutions for Chronic Feline Ringworm Treatme
Why Do Cats Get Ringworm? Why Does Ringworm Keep Coming Back? Can Ringworm Be Transmitted to Humans? How Should Ringworm Be Treated? Faced with these questions, let's delve deeper into the topic together.
How to Identify Ringworm in Cats?
Ringworm in cats is a common skin condition caused by fungi. Since it's a fungal infection, many cats may carry the fungus without actually developing ringworm.
The symptoms of ringworm include circular patches of hair loss; scaly, itchy, and inflamed skin; and rough, dry hair around the affected area. It's important to note that the hair loss around the affected area doesn't happen overnight; it's a gradual process, and the hair can often be easily pulled out with minimal effort.
The ears, cheeks, and chest are common areas where ringworm tends to appear, followed by the back, tail, and legs. Due to cats' habit of grooming themselves, the fungus can be spread throughout their bodies, so if you notice ringworm on your cat, it's crucial to conduct a fullbody examination rather than just treating the visible spots and their surroundings.
Infantile Ringworm
Ringworm in kittens is often referred to as "infantile ringworm." The reason kittens are prone to ringworm is that their immune systems are not fully developed, making them more susceptible to infections.
Beyond visual inspection, a more direct way to confirm if a cat has ringworm is to use a fungal detection lamp, also known as a Wood's lamp. When this lamp is shone on the affected areas, it will emit a fluorescent green glow, serving as a basic indicator of ringworm.
Ringworm Treatment Methods
Firstly, it's important to know that ringworm is curable, but it's a process that can take up to three months or more.
1. Mild Treatment
For mild cases of ringworm, overthecounter ointments, such as Pityrocin Tergotenate Spray or other pet fungal ointments, can be used.
2. Severe Treatment
For severe cases, such as widespread ringworm or areas with ulcers, a combination of oral and topical treatments is recommended. This includes taking antibiotics (like Amoxicillin) and applying ointments or undergoing medicated baths. In cases with many affected areas, shaving the hair may be necessary for treatment.
Additionally, pet owners should also:
Enhance their cat's nutrition to boost its immune system (such as supplementing with Vitamin B);
Ensure the environment is clean, wellventilated, and properly insulated;
Encourage more sun exposure for the cat;
Practice isolation, especially in multicat households;
Can Ringworm Be Transmitted to Humans? Yes, it can! The symptoms in humans are similar to those in cats—circular plaques, scaly skin, and intense itching, usually on the back of the hand or arm.
The transmission of ringworm from cats to humans occurs through direct contact with the cat's fur. Therefore, it's essential for pet owners to wash their hands thoroughly after petting a cat with ringworm. Moreover, all catrelated items should be disinfected promptly. It's crucial to use petsafe disinfectants to avoid any potential poisoning if the cat licks the disinfectant.
What Indicates That Ringworm Is Improving?
Improvement is indicated when the affected area stops expanding, new fur begins to grow, and there is no longer a presence of dandruff.
These are signs of recovery, but pet owners must continue treating their cats until they are completely healed, with all fur grown back. Otherwise, ringworm can return, undoing all the previous efforts!
