How
To Do With Cat Ringworm
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Despite the name, cat
ringworm is not caused by any kind of worm. It
is a fungal infection that affects the skin of dogs,
cats, humans and other animals. Microsporum Canis
is the most common type of ringworm in pets but there
are other types.
Ringworm is contracted by contact with infected animals
or their habitat, although spores of some types of
the fungus can be found in the soil. A cat can pick
up ringworm in many ways, including getting into a
fight with another cat that has it, catching an infected
mouse or rat, or sharing bedding or sleeping places
with other cats.
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If your cat spends a lot of time outside there is not very
much that you can to to prevent ringworm except to ensure
that the cat has a good healthy
diet and is well cared for. A healthy adult cat with
a strong immune system is not so likely to be infected even
if it comes into contact with ringworm. Kittens and old
or sick cats are more at risk and you may want to keep them
inside more often.
Symptoms of ringworm in cats include rough or broken hairs
or hair loss, especially around the head and paws. There
will usually be a patch of scaly skin that is inflamed and
sensitive.
Feline ringworm can be treated by either oral medication
or ointment, depending on the severity of the case. Follow
your veterinarian's instructions. It is very important that
treatment is given regularly over a long period. It can
take 6 weeks to eradicate ringworm. Do not miss a day or
stop just because your cat's skin looks better.
While you are treating your cat for ringworm you should
also wash the cat's bedding regularly and clean hard surfaces
around the house with a mild solution of bleach. The fungus
is killed by heat so washing or drying fabrics at high temperatures
is effective. You will also need to vacuum carpets and upholstery
often to pick up the fungal spores. Always wear gloves when
handling your cat and its bedding, and do not let children
touch the cat.
If you have other pets you will need to take them to the
veterinarian to be checked too, even they do not show symptoms
of ringworm. Some animals can carry the fungus without being
affected by it themselves, and if they are not treated then
your infected pet may contract it over and over from your
apparently unaffected pets.
Ringworm is not a fatal infection but it is irritating
and can be difficult to get rid of, and there is a risk
of the cat passing it on to you and your family. It is possible
that you could pick it up from your cat and if you have
kids, they can get it quite easily.
So you will want to be sure that any pets infected with
cat
ringworm are diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.
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Cat Health Cat Care
