Cat Ringworm: Treatment and Prevention Guide

What Is Ringworm?

Despite the name, ringworm is a fungal infection, not a worm. The most common species in cats is Microsporum canis. It's highly contagious to other pets and humans.

Signs of Ringworm

• Circular patches of hair loss (especially on head, ears, and paws)
• Scaly, crusty, or red skin in affected areas
• Broken hairs around the patches
• Some cats are asymptomatic carriers

Diagnosis

Your vet may use a Wood's lamp (UV light) for initial screening, but fungal culture is the gold standard. Culture results take 2-4 weeks.

Treatment

Topical

Lime sulfur dips twice weekly for 6-8 weeks. This is the most effective topical treatment but has a strong smell.

Oral

Itraconazole is the preferred oral antifungal. Treatment continues until two consecutive negative cultures are obtained.

Environmental Decontamination

Fungal spores survive for 18 months in the environment. Vacuum daily, wash bedding in hot water, and disinfect hard surfaces with diluted bleach (1:10). Consider professional cleaning for severe cases.

Human Protection

Wear gloves when handling an infected cat. Wash hands thoroughly after contact. If you develop red, itchy, ring-shaped rashes, see a doctor.