If you suspect your cat may be infected with ringworm, the first step is to visit a veterinarian. If your cat has a ringworm culture, then you will need to treat the infection. However, if your skin biopsy does not show dermatophytes, then you should not conclude that your cat does not have the disease.
Contents
Treatment of ringworm in cats
Cats who are infected with ringworm should be kept in sanitary rooms and bedding to prevent transmission. You can also use a solution of chlorine bleach and water to clean the environment, especially bedding, to kill the fungal spores. You can also disinfect your hands and surfaces frequently with a disinfectant.
Generally, cats will recover from their infection. It may take two to three weeks to notice a difference in the lesions, but overall improvement should be apparent after this time. However, if you stop treatment too early or the medication is not aggressive enough, or your cat’s immune system is compromised, the condition may recur. If this happens, you should consult your veterinarian to discuss the next steps for preventing recurrence.
Ringworm in cats can be treated with oral and topical antifungal medications. Topical medications can be applied directly to the affected areas. You should also use gloves to prevent the spread of the spores or infection of your own skin. Oral medications can also be given as full-body rinses.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of cat ringworm is an important first step in treating your feline friend. The diagnosis involves determining the type of ringworm, as well as the underlying disease. Treatment for ringworm should result in complete eradication of the fungus. Occasionally, cats may remain in a “carrier state” even after successful treatment.
Diagnosis for this disease should be based on a thorough physical exam, including Wood’s lamp examination, and direct examination of hairs. Performing fungal cultures should confirm the diagnosis. It is best to carry out these tests in-house to maximize the chances of a successful treatment outcome. Fungal cultures should be repeated weekly to ensure the most accurate results. Moreover, the weekly results should be reviewed to help veterinarians make the most effective treatment decisions. The number of cfu present on the culture plate is a clear indication of the stage of the infection.
Symptoms of ringworm in cats often include a circular red rash. Additionally, the skin may be itchy and the cat may also experience hair loss. In more advanced cases, the infection may lead to malformed nails.
Treatment options
The most common treatment for ringworm in cats is a combination of oral and topical antifungal medications. The oral drugs are usually given by mouth. The antifungal medications help control the spread of the fungus and prevent it from coming back. Treatment usually lasts for six weeks. During this time, veterinarians will conduct a culture of the cat’s skin to ensure that the condition has been effectively treated.
Another method for curing ringworm in cats is to use an antifungal shampoo. This treatment is effective for treating the condition, as well as disinfecting the fur. Sometimes, the condition will clear up on its own, but it can take months. In the meantime, the ringworm can be uncomfortable for the cat. In the meantime, the medication will help cure the symptoms and prevent the ringworm from coming back.
Ringworm in cats is generally not serious, but it is important to take preventive measures. If left untreated, it can spread to people and other animals. Transmission of ringworm in cats occurs through direct contact between two infected individuals. Although most adult humans are immune to ringworm, children and the immunocompromised should seek medical attention if they notice a change in their skin. In the event that human infection is suspected, a topical antifungal cream can relieve the symptoms.
Predisposing factors
Ringworm is a contagious fungus that can cause skin lesions. It affects almost all cats, but it can also affect dogs and humans. When a cat has the fungus, it will produce red, raised, and itchy lesions. The lesions can also become scaly and rough. It may also lead to distorted nails and patchy hair loss. If your cat has ringworm, it is important to treat it as soon as possible.
While most cats will recover with treatment, some cases may recur. This is especially true if the underlying problem is not treated properly. For this reason, ringworm treatment should last at least four to six weeks. During this time, ringworm cultures should be performed to determine if the infection is still present. Treatment is usually continued until two consecutive negative cultures are obtained.
The most effective ringworm treatment is topical. Topical solutions help reduce both immediate and ongoing environmental contamination, sterilize the coat, and prevent spores from growing. One of the easiest and least expensive topicals is lime sulfur solution. It is easy to apply and has been proven to work effectively in shelter settings.