Can a person become infected with ringworm from a cat?

Ringworm is a fungal disease common not only among cats but also among dogs, chinchillas, and other pets. Pets often become infected through contact with stray animals or through the environment. Therefore, many owners naturally ask: can you catch ringworm from a cat? Unfortunately, the answer is yes—humans can indeed contract the disease from an infected pet.

Types of lichen

How is lichen transmitted?

The disease is caused by fungi of the genera Microsporum and Trichophytum; the former is the most common cause of ringworm in cats. These microorganisms are extremely resistant to environmental conditions and can survive on a cat's fur for up to 5-7 years. The following are ways the disease can be transmitted from cats to humans:

1. In case of direct contact with a sick pet – The pathogens that cause lichen are easily transmitted from animal to humanYou don't even need to pet or pick it up to see it—the spores can be found on cat fur floating in the air.
2. From a healthy cat that is a carrier – this is also possible if the pet has a strong enough immune system: that is, there are no external signs of the disease.
3. Through the ground or sand – for example, small children can become infected with ringworm in a sandbox, which is a favorable environment for the reproduction of harmful microorganisms.

Moreover, it is not surprising that a domestic cat that does not go outside gets sick and infects a person with ringworm – after all, its owners could have brought the fungus from the street on their shoes or outerwear.

Children aged 4 to 15 are most often affected, and there are several reasons for this. Firstly, a child's immune system is weaker than an adult's. Secondly, children enjoy contact with animals, both domestic and stray, often stopping to pet a cute cat or dog on the street. Thirdly, children have more delicate skin, which also facilitates the development and proliferation of harmful microorganisms. Scratches and shallow wounds also provide a favorable environment for this.

Can a cat become infected with ringworm from a human?

Yes, this is also possible. Humans and cats can only infect each other with one type of this disease – ringwormPets typically become infected through direct physical contact with a person or another animal. Fungal spores remain on the fur and begin to germinate; the first symptoms of the disease become noticeable within 1-3 weeks.

However, cats with pathogens deposited on their fur do not always develop ringworm. Often, animals manage to lick the pathogens off before the process of germination and reproduction begins. Furthermore, in healthy cats with no immune system issues, the body often fights the disease on its own.

From the above it follows that the following are most susceptible to lichen:

• kittens and elderly pets;
• cats suffering from demodicosis (parasitic skin disease);
• people suffering from systemic diseases;
• animals with skin injuries (abrasions, scratches, cuts, etc.);
• cats that, for some reason, have stopped grooming their fur.

Thus, the well-known truth that humans can contract ringworm from cats also works in reverse. However, only one type of ringworm is transmitted this way, and animals become infected through personal contact and the presence of risk factors that weaken the pet's immune system.

Prevention

To avoid becoming infected yourself and to prevent your animal from becoming ill, you should take simple precautions:

• examine your cat regularly to notice signs of illness in a timely manner;
• Remove pet hair as often as possible using a vacuum cleaner or a wet cloth;
• do not allow children to pet cats and dogs outside;
• Treat any scratches or other damage to the skin promptly;
• After contact with any animals, be sure to wash your hands;
• Limit your pet's contact with stray cats.

What to do in case of infection

If a cat or kitten does become infected with ringworm, you should:

• isolate the animal from other pets and family members;
• disinfect his bedding, toys and other care items;
• do wet cleaning in the house and wash the bed linen;
• inspect all other pets;
• treat upholstered furniture;
• Contact your veterinarian as soon as possible for treatment and advice.

If a person, whether a child or an adult, is infected with ringworm, there's no need to fear or panic. The condition is fairly easily treated within 2-3 weeks. At the first sign of symptoms, consult a dermatologist and undergo treatment. The doctor will conduct a diagnosis using specialized equipment (a Wood's lamp) and prescribe antifungal medications.

After detecting the infection in yourself or your child, it is also recommended to disinfect combs and other personal hygiene items, clothing, and bedding. Avoid scratching or picking at affected areas of skin, as this will only worsen the condition. Along with taking antifungal medications, it is important to strengthen your immune system.

You can also ask our website's staff veterinarian a question, who will answer them as quickly as possible in the comments box below.

Read also:

• Ringworm in cats
• Why you shouldn't kiss cats
• The cat is losing hair in clumps, leaving bald spots.