Ringworm is a known and very common skin condition in dogs and cats. Although its name may indicate the opposite, but ringworm is not caused by any type of worm.
This skin condition is caused by ‘Dermatophyte’ fungi that feed on the dead tissue found on the skin of cats and dogs and spread it around the skin of the animal.
For cats, there is a certain type of fungus called ‘M Canis’, present in almost 95% of ringworm cases.
Cats can have ringworm by several contaminated objects, such as bedding, a mower or other affected animal. If there are other cats suffering from ringworm, at home or around, then your cat could very easily contract it.
If you have old cats or even kittens at home, you should always take precautions because they can easily have ringworm.
Kittens can contract the disease, especially if you allow them to go out. They can easily come into contact with a contaminated object or other cat with the disease.
Kittens take a long time to strengthen their immune system and, in the meantime, are more likely to contract a common disease such as ringworm.
The most common symptoms of ringworm in cats are rough or dead hairs, or loss of hair around the head and feet.
Ringworm can easily be identified by a squamous skin patch on the body that appears itchy and inflamed. There will also be broken hairs around the squamous skin patch.
This area is very sensitive and you should never try to touch it because it would hurt your cat.
If you notice any of the above symptoms on your cat, you should immediately make an appointment with a veterinarian. After diagnosis, and if the cat is affected by ringworm, the veterinarian may prescribe an ointment or tablets. What he describes, however, will determine the severity of ringworm. If he prescribes tablets to your cat, you must give it to him during meals. The ointment, on the other hand, is normally spread in the mantle, topically.
You must always use the veterinarian’s instructions daily for your cat to heal. The healing process will take time, about six weeks or more.
Note that :
- Cats with ringworm should be labeled as infectious.
- If you have children at home, keep them away from your cat.
- Whenever you handle your cat, you should always use gloves.
- Ringworm are contagious and you should always be cautious.
- Although it is a mild disease, ringworm can lead to serious problems because of the slow recovery time and the fact that it is contagious.