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Many misconceptions surround the subject of ringworm. Statistics show Microsporum canis is the leading cause of ringworm in cats. This is a microscopic fungal organism that is very contagious and able to spread from pet to pet, pet to human, or human to pet.
Early symptoms of ringworm in cats can include dry, flaky skin, bald areas on ears, legs and around the eyes. These symptoms will continue to worsen and eventually develop into crusty, infected lesions that often become red and sore.
It is possible for cats not showing clinical signs of ringworm to be carriers, so owners of new pets should beware.
Although ringworm is most common in young cats or those with debilitating diseases or immune deficiencies, all cats are susceptible. Triggers to outbreaks can be environmental stress and poor nutrition.
The fungus survives on the animal by invading the growing hair shaft and feeding off the protein that is in the hair and skin. Although ringworm can occur in any region, it is most common in areas with high humidity and temperatures.
Treatment for a cat diagnosed with ringworm consists of three steps, bathing, oral medication and vaccination/ treatment injections.
A veterinarian will often recommend a bath using a shampoo that is both antibacterial and anti-fungal. The brand will depend on the individual doctor. Some will start out by using a simple Betadine or Nolvasan surgical scrub.
Any product used to bathe the cat will need to lathered and left on for the time ordered by the doctor. This is an important part of treatment. Any shampoo or scrub will not have an immediate affect and if directions are not followed, the shampoo, money and time spent have all been wasted. Since ringworm is contagious to humans, proper precautions should be taken when bathing an infected cat.
The second part of the treatment plan is giving an oral medication. Once again, the actual medication will depend on the veterinarian but Fulvicin is a popular brand. It is often started with a large loading dose that is often twice the strength of the smaller, daily dose. Depending on the severity of the case, more than one round of medication may be required. Owners also need to realize pilling a cat is not only different, but much more difficult than a dog. Most veterinary clinics and pet supply retailers will carry a small plastic device that is designed specifically for pilling a cat. The cost of these devices is nominal when compared to the convenience and safety they offer.
The injections used to treat infected cats are actually vaccinations that are now available for the prevention of ringworm in cats. It was found the prevention had an added benefit of also being part of the cure causing a significant clinical improvement in the symptoms of ringworm. These prevention/treatment vaccinations require an initial treatment of three separate injections given over the course of several weeks.
Since ringworm is contagious to humans and other animals, great care should be taken when dealing with the infected cat. Whenever possible, the cat should be isolated from other pets. An area with out carpet or cloth cushions is highly recommended because they are easier to clean and disinfect. Owners often feel this is cruel to the pet and continue to allow the cat to roam the house and come into contact with the other members of the household causing the infection of everyone involved. If a cat is allowed to roam, the owner needs to make sure to vacuum carpets and furniture on a daily basis to remove the hair that has been shed. This hair carries ringworm just as the pet itself does.
Whenever handling the cat, precautions for the owner are very important. Always wash any exposed skin with warm water and a good antibacterial soap. If at anytime, a human starts to have itchy areas or skin lesions appear, they should contact their personal physician immediately. It is important to tell them exposure to ringworm has occurred so proper treatment can begin at once.
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