Feline ringworm is not actually caused by worms, but by a fungus which grows in the layers of the skin, nails or hair. The fungi are found in three different forms- Microsporum Canis, Microsporum Gypsum and Trichophyton. It is Microsporum Canis that is most commonly found in cats.
Ringworm is contagious, and is spread from other infected animals
Feline ringworm is caused by fungal organisms named dermatophytes. The disease usually targets cats under a year old because their immune systems haven’t fully developed. Cats with long hair also contract feline ringworm more often than short-haired cats. The disease is very infectious and can be transmitted to cats, humans, and dogs. The fungus is spread from other infected animals; the spores typically cluster around the infected hairs and are shed with the hairs onto bedding, combs, furniture and carpets. The fungus spores from an infected cat remain infectious for up to two years.
When a cat comes into contact with infected spores, they attach to the skin and germinate to produce hyphae which then invade the cat’s hair and skin. It is thought that the cat is more susceptible to infection if they have broken or sore skin areas. Cats most at risk of infection appear to be those under a year old, and long haired cats, who may struggle to groom themselves effectively.
Symptoms
There will be circular patches where the hair has fallen out, due to the fungus weakening the hair shafts. These are most common around the head and on the limbs, although ringworm can also affect the claws and claw beds. The cat may also develop dry, flaky skin, which may become itchy and red; dandruff may also be present. Ringworm can be difficult to diagnose as symptoms are very similar to other skin conditions.
If your cat displays signs of a skin condition, you should consult your vet as a matter of course. There are various tests which can determine a diagnosis of ringworm. The fungus around the hair follicles will glow a fluorescent green when the cat is placed under an ultraviolet lamp. Your vet may remove some hair from your cat and incubate these in a laboratory- if the hairs are infected by ringworm, then the fungus will grow. A microscopic examination can also be undertaken to look for fungus spores in the cat’s coat.
Treatment
Feline ringworm can clear up naturally in time in otherwise healthy cats, but treatment is advised to cure it earlier due to infection risks to humans and other animals. A popular treatment is to wash the cat’s whole body using a lime sulfur shampoo. Cats should ideally be bathed every four to six days for four to six weeks. The lime sulfur may cause yellowing to your cat’s fur, which will fade in time. Long haired cats may need to be clipped before treatment, and if you have a multi cat household then your other cats will need treating as well.
Your cat can remain contagious for up to three weeks following treatment.
Your vet may decide to treat any existing flea and mite infections, as these could cause skin damage which would make your cat more susceptible to feline ringworm.
Anti-fungal drugs can also be used, such as Itrafungol, Griseofulvin or Terbinafine. Your vet will give you directions on how to administer these. Cats should be treated until they test negative for fungal infection; the skin will look much improved, but the ringworm may not be eliminated and can reoccur. In general, courses of treatment should be given for a minimum of six weeks.
You will also need to treat the cat’s home environment, as the fungus can live in bedding, carpets etc and could re-infect your cat. Thoroughly clean all rooms your cat has access to; vacuum carpets and dispose of the vacuum bag, and disinfect bedding, brushes and toys. It is best to replace anything which can’t be disinfected. If you have a multi cat household, you may need to segregate infected cats until they are clear of the infection.
A bleach solution may be useful to disinfect surfaces, and commercial disinfectants are also available.
Ringworm can be passed onto humans very easily, so you should minimise manually handling your cat until she is clear. You should also discourage children from handling her. It is well worth checking whether your cat skin problem is ringworm so that it can be treated as soon as possible.
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