We’ve taken a look at common health problems in cats, but what about Ringworm? Ringworm is a very common skin disease found in both dogs and cats. Although its name makes you think otherwise, this skin disease isn’t caused by any type of worm. It’s actually caused by fungi known as Dermatophytes. These feed on dead tissues found in the surface of the skin, spreading them around the skin of the animal. We take a closer look the effects of ringworm in cats in this article.
With cats, there is a certain type of fungi known as M Canis that is found with nearly 95% of all ringworm cases. Normally, cats will get the ringworm disease from contaminated objects like bedding, clippers, or another animal that already has the disease. If there are animals in your home or around your house that have the ringworm disease, your cat could very easily contract it this way.
Precautions
If you have kittens or cats that are under a year old in your home, you should always use precaution, as they are more susceptible to ringworm. Kittens can easily contract the disease, especially if you allow them to go outside. They can easily come in contact with a contaminated object or another cat that has the disease. Kittens take a long time to build their immune system up, and in the meantime they are more apt to get common disease such as ringworm.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of ringworm in cats are rough or broken hairs, or hair loss around the head or the paws. A patch of scaly skin on the body that appears itchy and inflamed is one of the effects of ringworm in cats. There will also be broken hairs around the patch of scaly skin. This area is very sensitive, and you should never try to touch it, as it will hurt your cat.
Treatment
If you notice any of the above symptoms with your pet, you should immediately schedule an appointment with your vet. If the vet diagnosis your cat with ringworm, he may prescribe ointment or tablets. What he describes however, will determine on how serious the ringworm is. If he prescribes tablets to your cat, you should give them with meals. Ointment on the other hand, is normally spread into the coat, topically. You should always use what your vet prescribes on a daily basis, to ensure that your cat heals. The healing process will take time, normally around six weeks or more.
Infection
Regard a cat with ringworm as infectious. If you have children in the house, you should keep them away from your pet. Whenever you handle your cat, you should always use gloves. Ringworm is contagious, and you should always use caution. Even though it’s a mild disease, ringworm is contagious and can result in serious problems due to the slow recovery time.
