Ringworm in cats

Ringworm in cats is an infectious disease caused by fungi called dermatophytes. Most often, the skin is affected in cats, but damage to the claws and fur is also common. The disease is also insidious because it can be transmitted to humans. Today, we'll tell you about the causes, symptoms, signs, and treatment of ringworm in cats, including at home. While ringworm in cats can resolve on its own over time without any treatment, treatment is still necessary due to the risk of infection for the owner.

The most pressing questions about ringworm in cats

Before we dive into the details of ringworm in cats, we've prepared answers to your most pressing and common questions.

What to do if you discover ringworm in your cat?

If you notice signs of ringworm in your cat, you need to:

• Don't panic, in most cases, lichen is easily treated.
• Temporarily isolate the cat from contact with people and other animals.
• Disinfect the area where the cat was and any objects it came into contact with, as some types of ringworm can be transmitted to humans.
• Contact a veterinarian. Your cat needs to be examined by a specialist so they can make a proper diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
• More detailed information about the symptoms and treatment of lichen at home is written below.

Is ringworm transmitted from cats? to a person or other animals?

As mentioned above, some types of ringworm can indeed be transmitted to humans and other animals. Infection can occur through personal contact with an animal or through objects in the room where the animal is infected and that have come into contact with it (e.g., toys, furniture, carpeting).

Do cats get congenital ringworm?

Dermatophytes, the fungi that cause ringworm, cannot be transmitted in utero. Newborn kittens, having weakened immune systems, can become infected after birth from their mother. However, the mother doesn't necessarily have to have ringworm herself; she could very well be a carrier of the dermatophytes.

How long does it take to treat ringworm in cats on average?

Treatment for lichen typically lasts three weeks. However, some types of lichen can affect deeper layers of the epidermis, in which case treatment can take up to six months or more.

The first signs of ringworm in cats

You can determine that your cat is infected with ringworm by several signs:

• The skin changes noticeably - local superficial inflammations appear, the stratum corneum of the skin gradually loosens;
• Sudden hair loss occurs (most often in the head area,
• neck, back of the cat);
• Scales and dried crusts may form on the surface of the skin;
• The cat may begin to scratch intensely in certain areas of its body.
• For more information on the visual symptoms of ringworm in cats, see the photo below.

Cause of occurrence

Ringworm in cats is caused by microorganisms. These include:

• Trichophyton;
• Microsporum canis;
• Microsporum gypseum.

A microorganism called Trichophyton causes a type of lichen known scientifically as trichophytosis, while two other microscopic fungi cause microsporia. Although the microorganisms have different names, the symptoms of the disease in cats are completely identical. It is because of these symptoms that this disease is called ringworm.

Microscopic fungi can be transferred to a cat's fur from another cat or from the pet's surroundings. Infection occurs when spores (which can remain viable for up to two years) of the microscopic fungi enter a warm, moist environment. These spores can remain on furniture, carpets, and shed fur for a long time. The disease may remain completely asymptomatic for a long time, and external signs of the disease may only appear after several months.

In most cases, ringworm affects small kittens whose immune system is not yet fully developed.

Healthy adult cats usually have natural immunity to ringworm. The risk of contracting this infection increases if the cat roams freely outdoors, is infected with parasites, or is poorly fed. Genetics also play a role; for example, Persian cats, a breed bred artificially, do not have natural immunity to ringworm.

Symptoms

At the initial stage of ringworm in cats, the most characteristic sign is the presence of a round spot on the pet that is devoid of hair. Small pustules, scales, or blisters may sometimes be seen in the center of this area. If ringworm is left untreated, the area may expand. Itching may be bothersome or absent altogether. In some cases, ringworm can spread to the cat's entire body, causing the skin to become greasy and flaky.

It is necessary to distinguish dermatitis Ringworm in cats can have some similar symptoms. Cat owners should remember that the primary signs of the disease are excessive shedding and the constant formation of hairballs. The cat will also frequently scratch its ears. If ringworm affects the claws, they become deformed and grow abnormally. See the photo for an example of ringworm in cats:

Diagnostics

How can you identify ringworm in a cat? Diagnosis involves examining the affected area with a Wood's lamp. This lamp works by causing fungi to emit a fluorescent glow when exposed to its light. The accuracy of this method is relatively low (60%), as many microorganisms can also fluoresce.

For a more accurate diagnosis, the pathogen is isolated using a specific culture medium. Scales and crusts collected from the affected area of ​​the cat's fur or skin are used as biomaterial for the study. At the same time, the owner should check the pet for a parasitic infection, as this can lead to a weakened immune system, which in turn can lead to the development of ringworm.

Treatment at home

Below, we'll explain the general rules for treating ringworm in cats at home. Once the disease is diagnosed, the cat is treated with antifungal ointments applied to the affected areas. Miconazole and thiabendazole are the most commonly used ointments. Your cat should also be provided with a nutritious diet. Treatment for ringworm should include testing for other diseases. So, how do you treat ringworm in cats at home?

The owner should also remember that the animal must be isolated from other individuals. and, preferably, from people to exclude the possibility of their infection. In severe cases, not only local treatment with ointments, but oral medications are also used. If your cat has long hair, it must be trimmed to treat ringworm. Avoid touching the affected areas of your pet's body to prevent the ringworm from spreading throughout the body.

It's also important to remember that clipped hair and the scissors used for clipping may contain fungal spores. This means these items must be sterilized.

Lime sulfide baths are often used to treat ringworm in cats. This may cause the animal's fur to turn yellow, but the effect is very good. Ringworm can also be treated with lotions or shampoos containing miconazole or enilconazole.

In severe cases where the animal's entire body or claws are affected, specialists prescribe the following oral medications for the treatment of ringworm in cats:

• Griseofulvin;
• Terbinafine;
• Itraconazole.

Treating lichen with these medications can lead to some complications, which means that the disease should not be allowed to progress under any circumstances.

Ringworm in cats (microsporia, trichophytosis)

Ringworm in cats is a fungal disease called a dermatophytosis. This type of ringworm is caused by fungi of the Microsporum and Trichophyton genera. These fungi penetrate the superficial layers of the cat's skin, feeding on the upper epithelium. This disease is especially dangerous for cats with long hair, as in the initial stages, it can be very difficult to see the gradually spreading lesions beneath the cat's long fur. Ringworm is a rather arbitrary term and can refer to a wide range of dermatophytoses caused by different types of fungi.

First symptoms

The first symptoms of ringworm in cats include round, bald patches and ash-like white scales, typically appearing around the ears and on the cat's limbs. It's impossible to pinpoint the typical signs of this dermatophytosis, as the affected area and appearance can vary from case to case. General clinical signs of ringworm can only indicate its presence, but a definitive diagnosis must be made by a specialist based on tests and appropriate examinations. Therefore, if you suspect ringworm in your cat, you should immediately consult a specialist. See the photo for an example of ringworm in its early stages:

Treatment

How to treat ringworm in cats? This disease is a very dangerous and contagious disease and, in the absence of adequate treatment, can cause a number of complications. Therefore, the approach to treating ringworm in cats should be systemic, using both local and internal antifungal drugs.

Shampoos

Immediately before treatment, the area around the affected area should be shaved and treated with an antiseptic. The cat can also be washed with a shampoo containing an antifungal component. Nizoral and Sebazol shampoos have proven effective for ringworm in cats.

Nizoral shampoo contains ketoconazole, a broad-spectrum antifungal agent, as its active ingredient. Sebozol shampoo also contains ketoconazole as an active ingredient and is a budget-friendly alternative to Nizoral shampoo. It's important to remember that antifungal shampoo alone does not have a pronounced therapeutic effect and cannot lead to a complete recovery in cats. These shampoos are used as a complement to the main treatment: to relieve itching, improve the condition of the skin and coat, and accelerate the animal's recovery.

Ointments

As a local treatment, it is possible to use antifungal ointments such as Clotrimazole, Miconazole, Sanoderm, and Fungin spray.

• Clotrimazole ointment is applied to the damaged areas of the skin 3 times a day and treatment is continued for 1 month or more until recovery.
• Miconazole ointment is applied to damaged areas of the skin 2 times a day for 1-2 months until recovery.
• Sanoderm ointment is a combination product containing a broad-spectrum antibiotic, the antifungal agent clotrimazole, and an anti-inflammatory agent. This ointment is applied to the affected area 1-2 times daily for 2 weeks or 1 month, depending on the severity of the condition. Sanoderm ointment has a number of contraindications, so consult a veterinarian before use.

Other means

Fungin spray is a veterinary drug whose main active ingredient is clotrimazole. Spray Spray onto the affected area of ​​skin, or apply to a gauze bandage and apply to areas of inflammation for 1-2 weeks.

Your vet may prescribe your cat a combination vaccine against dematophytes: Vakderm, Polivak. Typically, infected cats are vaccinated with these drugs twice, but in particularly severe cases, three doses of the vaccine are administered with an interval of 10-14 days.

Weeping eczema in cats

Weeping eczema in cats is a condition associated with a malfunctioning immune system. Weeping eczema is not a true form of ringworm and is not caused by fungi, but by factors that trigger this allergic reaction in cats. These factors can be external (chemical exposure to detergents, parasites (fleas, ticks), poor hygiene), or internal (hormonal imbalances of various origins, nervous system disorders, stress, and so on).

First symptoms

Symptoms that may indicate your cat has the first signs of weeping eczema include painless red spots Skin lesions with a localized increase in body temperature at the sites of inflammation. These spots subsequently develop into dense blisters filled with exudative fluid. Depending on the progression of the disease and treatment, these blisters may resolve, but if left untreated, they may rupture and become infected, leading to the formation of pustules. After the pustules rupture, the skin at the site of inflammation becomes moist. With proper treatment and adequate airflow to the inflammation, the area of ​​weeping eczema quickly becomes covered with crusts, which then fall off in flakes, making way for new, healthy skin.

Treatment

Weeping eczema in cats is quite difficult to treat, and achieving a full recovery can be quite challenging, as the slightest deviation from the treatment plan can worsen the condition. In any case, before beginning treatment for weeping eczema, you should consult a veterinarian to determine the trigger. General recommendations for treating weeping eczema include a number of antiseptic and astringent agents that can significantly improve the condition of your cat's skin in the affected areas. These include, first and foremost, natural-based ointments for cats, such as salicylic ointment, sulfur ointment, ichthyol ointment, tar ointment, and YaM BK ointment.

• Salicylic ointment 2%, 5% and 10%A mixture of salicylic acid and veterinary petroleum jelly is an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic agent that restores the skin at the site of inflammation. Salicylic ointment is applied to the damaged area of ​​skin at a distance of 3-4 cm around it, 1-2 times a day for 7-12 days.
• Sulfur ointmentThanks to its sulfur content, sulfur ointment has pronounced antiparasitic and antifungal properties. It is recommended to apply sulfur ointment 1-2 times daily for 1-3 weeks until the cat's skin is completely restored. It is also possible to apply sulfur ointment topically. To do this, apply the required amount of sulfur ointment to a gauze bandage and secure it with medical tape. This bandage should be changed every 2-3 days.
• Ichthyol ointment 10% and 20% It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Ichthyol, a component of this ointment, has epithelializing properties, which significantly enhances skin regeneration in areas of eczema. Ichthyol ointment is applied to the affected areas of skin 1-2 times a day for 7-10 days.
• Tar ointment It has a disinfectant and antiparasitic effect, reduces inflammation, and restores damaged skin. Tar ointment is applied to inflamed areas 1-2 times a day until complete recovery.
• Yam BK ointment Combines some of the above-mentioned substances (salicylic acid, tar) and other components that actively fight inflammation and promote rapid skin recovery. YaM BK ointment is applied to damaged areas of skin 1-2 times a day for 7-12 days or until complete recovery.

Pityriasis rosea in cats (Gibert's lichen)

In its initial stages, pityriasis rosea in cats appears as a pink, sharply defined, scaly spot, which is very itchy and causes great discomfort to your cat. Typically, after a few days, this spot becomes covered with a dry crust. Similar spots can spread to other parts of the cat's body. Pink lichen in cats is not contagious to humans.

Treatment

Since the onset of pityriasis rosea is usually associated with a sharp decline in the cat's immune system, treatment focuses on strengthening and supporting the immune system. This type of pityriasis does not require any specific treatment. Simply ensure your cat is rested and receives a nutritious diet containing a full range of vitamins and minerals. Washing the animal is strictly prohibited. Also, avoid direct sunlight. Pityriasis rosea resolves on its own within 1-2 months. The photo most likely shows pityriasis rosea in its early stages:

Pityriasis versicolor (tinea versicolor) in cats

Ringworm in cats is a highly contagious disease for humans and other animals. This type of ringworm typically begins with the formation of a small, oval-shaped spot on the cat's body, sometimes ranging in color from pink and pale yellow to brown. The spots then quickly spread throughout the cat's body and begin to merge into one. Ringworm in cats is contagious to humans and other animals.

Treatment

It's important to note that treating pityriasis versicolor requires a responsible and competent approach, so be sure to consult a veterinarian at the first sign of this condition. Enilconazole-containing medications, such as Imaverol, are typically used to treat pityriasis versicolor in cats. In particularly severe cases, treatment with Lyme Sulfur may also be recommended.

Imaverol – a drug based on enilconazole, used as a diluted emulsion. To prepare the emulsion, dilute 1 part of the drug in 50 parts warm distilled water. Apply the prepared solution to the affected areas of the ringworm once every 3 days. No more than 4 treatments are required. The cat can be immersed in the diluted emulsion.

Lime Sulphur – a highly concentrated solution of hydrogen sulfide lime. This preparation is diluted in the following proportions: 1 ml of the concentrated substance is added to 33 ml of water. The animal is treated with the prepared emulsion no more than once a week, strictly after consultation with a specialist.

Important! The substance is extremely toxic, so when working with this solution, observe the following precautions:

• Be sure to wear a mask and protective gloves before handling your animal.
• Do not exceed the dosage of the drug; do not allow the cat to come into contact with the concentrated substance.
• Avoid contact of the drug with the cat's eyes and mucous membranes.
• The substance has an extremely unpleasant odor, so the animal must be treated in a well-ventilated area.
• It is strictly forbidden for the cat to lick the drug, so it is advisable to use a special collar.

Other antifungal agents listed above can also be used to treat pityriasis versicolor.

Shingles in cats

Due to a common misconception, shingles is often classified as a disease diagnosed in animals. In fact, shingles is a disease specific to humans. Cats and other animals do not get it. It's possible that shingles in cats refers to one of the above-mentioned types of lichen.

Ringworm in a pregnant cat

The main consideration when treating ringworm in pregnant cats is that the use of aggressive antifungal medications during pregnancy is undesirable, as this may harm the unborn fetus. In this situation, herbal remedies may be appropriate. There are many treatments for ringworm in cats based on traditional medicine principles.

Typically, plants such as:

• common oregano,
• burdock,
• common valerian,
• wild pansy,
• chamomile,
• plantain,
• yarrow and others.

These components are combined or used separately depending on the specific condition. Here are some recipes.

Recipe No. 1

Method of preparation and use:

Pour 500 ml of boiling water over 2 tablespoons of this mixture, let it steep for 20 minutes, and strain. Give the warm mixture to your cat orally 3-4 times a day, 30 minutes before meals, until fully recovered.

Recipe No. 2

Method of preparation and use: Pour 200 ml of boiling water over 1 tablespoon of the mixture, simmer for 25-30 minutes, and strain. Give your cat warm orally 3-4 times a day, 30 minutes before meals, until fully recovered. Your cat will especially enjoy this infusion, as it contains valerian.

It has proven itself well in the treatment of lichen tea tree essential oilThanks to its pronounced antifungal properties, it has a beneficial effect on maintaining and improving the overall condition of a cat's skin during ringworm. Tea tree oil should only be used diluted: 3-4 drops diluted in 1 tablespoon of a carrier oil (olive oil or peach kernel essential oil). This oil mixture is recommended to be applied 2-3 times daily to the affected areas until complete healing.

Always remember that treating a pregnant cat is a double responsibility. Therefore, if you discover ringworm in your pet, consult a qualified specialist immediately to avoid further complications.

Prevention

To prevent your cat from becoming infected with ringworm, you must follow these instructions:

• regular cleaning and disinfection of the place where the cat lives;
• It is necessary to thoroughly clean the furniture;
• It is advisable to treat surfaces with a weak bleach solution, to which most fungi and microorganisms are sensitive;
• When purchasing a new animal, it must be examined;
• It is advisable to prevent the animal from walking outside;
• Do not allow your pet to come into contact with other cats, for example, at shows or during walks.

If you have any questions about treating ringworm in cats, please ask them in the comments—we'll do our best to answer them!The incubation period of lichen The incubation period can range from 3-4 days to 2-3 months. It all depends on the individual animal's immunity and the type of ringworm itself. During the incubation period, the cat may show no signs of the disease at all.

Any questions? You can ask our website's staff veterinarian in the comments below, who will answer them as quickly as possible.