RINGWORM IN CATS
Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection of the skin which can be spread directly (animal to animal or animal to person) or indirectly (from contaminated objects or the soil). There are several organisms which can cause ringworm. Ringworm is often seen in young, long-haired cats. The following factors can lead to ringworm: stress (time in a cattery); immunodeficiency (feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) or feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)); poor nutrition; cancer; diseases or medications which suppress the immune system. Some cats can be carriers and show no clinical signs.
Signs of ringworm can include: circular areas of hair loss, scaly and inflamed skin and scratching in some cases.
Ringworm can look similar to other skin diseases so our vets may perform a Wood's Lamp examination, look at hairs under the microscope or send samples to the lab for analysis.
Treatment may include anti-fungal creams and shampoos, clipping your cat's hair, oral medications and cleaning your cat's environment. Remember to wash your hands well after handling your cat.
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Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection of the skin which can be spread directly (animal to animal or animal to person) or indirectly (from contaminated objects or the soil). There are several organisms which can cause ringworm. Ringworm is often seen in young, long-haired cats. The following factors can lead to ringworm: stress (time in a cattery); immunodeficiency (feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) or feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)); poor nutrition; cancer; diseases or medications which suppress the immune system. Some cats can be carriers and show no clinical signs.
Signs of ringworm can include: circular areas of hair loss, scaly and inflamed skin and scratching in some cases.
Ringworm can look similar to other skin diseases so our vets may perform a Wood's Lamp examination, look at hairs under the microscope or send samples to the lab for analysis.
Treatment may include anti-fungal creams and shampoos, clipping your cat's hair, oral medications and cleaning your cat's environment. Remember to wash your hands well after handling your cat.
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