• Shelters, boarding facilities or multi-pet homes • Outdoor cats or those living in warm, humid environments are more likely to encounter the fungi that cause ringworm. Younger cats and long-haired breeds may also be at higher risk since their dense coats can trap spores more easily. Keeping your cat’s living space clean, regularly washing bedding and disinfecting grooming tools can help reduce the risk of infection. How Is Ringworm Passed from Cats to Humans? Ringworm is a zoonotic infection, meaning it can be transmitted between an infected animal and humans. People who are immunocompromised, very young or elderly are more susceptible. If your cat has been diagnosed with ringworm, it’s important to practice strict hygiene while they recover: • Wash your hands thoroughly after touching your cat or cleaning their bedding. • Disinfect commonly used surfaces and vacuum carpets regularly. • Limit close snuggling until treatment is underway and your veterinarian says it’s safe. While ringworm in humans typically appears as a red, circular rash on the skin, it’s easily treated with topical antifungal medication. Still, preventing the spread through cleanliness and quick veterinary intervention is key. What Does a Ringworm Infection Look Like on a Cat? Ringworm often causes circular patches of hair loss with a red or gray, scaly center. These skin lesions can appear anywhere on the body but are most common on the head, ears, tail and forelimbs. RINGWORM IN CATS: Symptoms & Treatment Options
I f you’ve noticed your cat developing circular bald patches or rough, scaly skin, you may be looking at a case of ringworm. Despite the name, ringworm isn’t caused by a worm — it’s a contagious fungal infection that affects a cat’s skin, fur and sometimes nails. It’s one of the most common skin conditions in cats, but the good news is that with proper treatment for ringworm in cats and good hygiene, it’s completely manageable. An Overview of Cat Ringworm Ringworm is caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes, which feed on keratin, the protein that makes up hair, skin and nails. These microscopic fungal organisms can live on the skin surface and hair shafts of an infected animal, leading to itching, patchy hair loss and inflamed patches. Because ringworm fungus is contagious, it can spread easily among animals and, in some cases, to humans. Cats of any age can develop ringworm, but kittens, senior cats and cats with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable. Immune suppression can increase the risk of ringworm infection, especially in cats with feline leukemia virus (FeLV). The infection is rarely life-threatening, but it requires patience and consistent, appropriate treatment to fully eliminate it, because environmental contamination with fungal spores can persist for months on surfaces like furniture, bedding, brushes and toys. How Do Cats Get Ringworm? Cats usually contract ringworm through direct contact with an infected animal or contaminated surface. The fungus responsible for feline ringworm infection is incredibly hardy and can remain infectious for up to 18 months in carpets, bedding or grooming tools.
Typical signs include: • Hairless, crusty skin or flaky areas on the skin • Red or inflamed rings • Brittle, broken hairs around affected spots
Common sources of infection include: • Other infected cats, dogs or small animals
• Shared brushes, blankets or toys • Contaminated soil or surfaces
Missouri Pet Breeders Association | Page 52
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