![]() Ringworm is an uncomfortable infection, but there are several different treatments and medications available for cats. Once your vet knows which fungus is causing your cat’s ringworm, they will recommend a treatment. Affected hairs will glow under the light, and your vet might take a swab sample from those areas. This handheld lamp uses ultraviolet light to examine your cat’s fur and skin. Frione explains that a vet might also use a Wood’s lamp to tell which hairs and areas are affected by ringworm. The PCR test helps identify the specific fungus that caused the ringworm infection.ĭr. Frione often uses a skin culture and a test called a PCR test. ![]() Your vet can perform multiple tests to confirm your cat has ringworm. When you put your cat into the carrier to go to the vet, wear gloves or wrap your cat in a towel. Frione recommends that you keep your cat isolated until the appointment. ![]() If you think your cat has ringworm, it’s important to take them to the vet. Frione also notes that some cats may have ringworm but won’t show any symptoms. Your cat’s claws might have a whitish color, and their claws might also shred easily.ĭr. The infection can include small, solid bumps or large bumps with open sores. Ringworm typically appears on a cat’s face, tail, ear tips, and feet. Just like the name describes, a ringworm rash often looks like a ring. She says you might see the following signs of the infection on your cat: Jennifer Frione, a veterinarian and owner of Lakeside Animal Hospital in Plantation, Florida, says ringworm can cause many symptoms. How do you know if your cat has ringworm?ĭr. This is because when they get infected, it’s not as noticeable compared to short-haired cats. Kittens and cats with compromised immune systems are more likely to develop ringworm than adult cats or those with robust immune systems.Īlso, long-haired cats tend to be sneaky carriers of ringworm. If your cat comes into contact with ringworm-causing fungi, they won’t necessarily get ringworm. Using the same furniture an infected pet has sat on, like in a shelter or boarding facility Using the same bedding as an infected pet Sleeping next to or licking and grooming an infected petīeing brushed with the same equipment used to groom an infected pet It also lives on an infected human or animal’s skin and hair.Įxamples of how ringworm gets transferred to cats include: That fungus can live on many surfaces, including blankets, grooming tools, and towels. But about 98% of cat ringworm infections are caused by a fungus called Microsporum canis.Ĭats get ringworm when they come into contact with the fungus that causes the infection. Different types of fungi can cause ringworm. It’s caused by a fungus that can sometimes lead to itchy, uncomfortable skin. Ringworm is a skin infection that can affect both pets and humans. Here’s what you need to know about this common and completely treatable cat skin infection. Ringworm will often go away on its own, but it takes much longer without treatment. Though ringworm is very contagious, it’s usually easy to contain with basic cleaning protocols. Acting quickly can also prevent ringworm from spreading to others. If you recognize the signs of ringworm early, you can get your cat appropriate treatment. ![]() Contrary to its name, it’s not a worm at all - ringworm is caused by a fungus. Ringworm is a skin infection that can affect your cat and spread to other pets and humans. ![]()
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