Ringworm is a common fungal infection that affects cats, causing skin lesions and hair loss. It is caused by a fungus that thrives on dead skin, hair, and nails. 

Despite its name, ringworm has nothing to do with worms. Instead, it is a skin infection that can spread easily and is treatable. This article will discuss how cats get ringworm and what you can do to prevent and treat it.

How Do Cats Get Ringworms?

Cats can get ringworm through direct contact with an infected animal, person, object, or surface. The fungus that causes ringworm, *Microsporum canis*, can survive on objects and surfaces for up to two years, making it difficult to identify the source of the infection and prevent spreading. It takes 1-2 weeks after initial contact before symptoms of the infection begin to appear.

Cats are more susceptible to ringworm if they have a weakened immune system, are kittens, or have long hair. Exposure to other infected animals, people, or contaminated objects and surfaces can increase the risk of infection.

Signs of Ringworm in Cats

Some cats with ringworm may not show any symptoms, while others may have:

• Hair loss, especially in circular patches
• Round sores on the skin
• Excessive grooming
• Dull or stubby coat
• Scaly or crusty skin
• Changes in fur or skin colour
• Inflamed areas of skin
• Red or grey, scaly lesions on the skin, typically on the head, chest, front legs, and spine
• Dull fur
• Rough, scaly, hardening of the base of the nails
• Distortion of the nails
• Nail infections (rare)

In severe cases, the skin lesions may be raised and nodular, producing discharge.

Treatment for Ringworm in Cats:

Treatment for ringworm in cats usually involves a combination of topical, oral, and environmental treatment. The extent of the topical treatment depends on the severity of the infection. In small-scale infections, antifungal creams may be used as a spot treatment on the patches of afflicted skin. 

In more advanced infections, your cat’s coat may need trimming, and your cat may need to be bathed with an antifungal shampoo.

Antifungal medication can also be administered through oral medication, known as “systemic medication,” which is an important component of a ringworm treatment plan.

Environmental Disinfection

Since ringworm can live on objects and surfaces for up to two years, decontaminating your home is essential for preventing the spread of ringworm. Thoroughly wash bedding, blankets, and any cloth material that your cat may have slept on or rubbed on. 

Vacuum all furniture, surfaces, and floors. Wipe down hard surfaces and floors with cleaner and consider deep cleaning your carpets. It is a good idea to keep your cat in one room or one area of the house while healing to prevent reinfection or spread.

Self-Resolution

If your cat is healthy and has a strong immune system, the ringworm infection could resolve on its own over time without treatment. However, this process can take up to a year, and there is a high potential for the fungal spores to spread in your home and yard during that time. 

Your cat will likely be highly uncomfortable during that time as well, struggling with hair loss and skin inflammation. By providing treatment for your cat, you can help your cat feel better and limit the spread of the infection.

Conclusion:

Ringworm is a common fungal infection that affects cats, causing skin lesions and hair loss. It is spread through direct contact with an infected animal, person, object, or surface. Cats with weakened immune systems, kittens, and long-haired cats are more susceptible to ringworm. 

Treatment for ringworm in cats usually involves a combination of topical, oral, and environmental treatment. It is essential to decontaminate your home to prevent the spread of ringworm. 

If your cat is healthy and has a strong immune system, the ringworm infection could resolve on its own over time without treatment. However, providing treatment for your cat can help your cat feel better and limit the spread of the infection.