Markethealthbeauty.com – Ringworm is a fungal infection that can affect both humans and animals, including cats. If left untreated, it can spread to other parts of your cat’s body and even to other pets or people in your home. As a pet owner, it’s crucial to know how to cure ringworm in cats and prevent its spread.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to cure ringworm in cats.
Ringworm is highly contagious and can cause severe itching, hair loss, and skin lesions in cats. If you suspect that your cat has ringworm, it’s essential to take action immediately. The first step is to isolate your cat to prevent the spread of infection to other pets or humans in your home.
Ringworm in cats can be transmitted to humans. Ringworm in cats mostly caused by Microsporum Canis. Other fungal species that cause this condition is Microsporum gypseum or Trichophyton species.
The fungus spreads from the other infected animals. Fungal spores which infect can remain active for up to 24 months. The spores can spread from cat beds, cat furniture, brush, and others who have contact with infected animals. The optimum condition for the growth of the fungus is humid and warm environment.
About 20% of the population of cats is known as asymptomatic carriers, i.e. they carry the fungus, but without experiencing any signs of infection. Cats aged under 12 months are more vulnerable to infection, as well as the cat that has long fur, as well as cats that are stressed.
How To Cure Ringworm In Cats
It is very important to treat the cat after diagnosed with ringworm. A healthy cat will recover from infection by itself within 2 to 4 months. However, due to this highly contagious infection, need immediate medical assistance.
Here are some ways to cure ringworm in cats:
1. Consult a Veterinarian
The first step in treating ringworm in cats is to consult a veterinarian. They will perform a physical examination and may take a skin scraping to confirm the diagnosis. Based on the severity of the infection, the vet may recommend topical or oral antifungal medication to treat the infection.
2. Treat the Environment
The Next Way How To Cure Ringworm In Cats is treat the environment. Ringworm spores can survive in your cat’s environment for up to 18 months. It’s essential to clean and disinfect your home thoroughly to prevent reinfection. Vacuum carpets, furniture, and bedding regularly and use a disinfectant solution to clean surfaces.
3. Quarantine the infected cats.
Avoid direct contact with other cats in the house. Separate the use of tools such as towel, comb, carpet, place to eat/drink, etc.
4. Shaving the affected area.
The Next Way How To Cure Ringworm In Cats is saving the affected area of ringworm to facilitate treatment. If the ringworm infection found in some parts of the skin, we recommend shaving cat advance to facilitate treatment.
5. Itrafungol.
Your veterinarian may prescribe an Itrafungol containing itraconazole or other medications to treat the infection.
6. Apply the ointment, cream or anti-fungal spray.
An ointment / cream containing sulfur is effective for treating ringworm. Giving Betadine is also quite powerful for a ringworm that are still mild. Anti fungal sprays very practical, because we simply sprayed onto areas that are infected with the ringworm. Example of spray to treat ringworm is a virbac wound gard.
7. Special shampoo.
The Next Way How To Cure Ringworm In Cats is through topical therapy is by washing the body of a cat using a special shampoo.
8. Bathing a cat every 4-6 days for about 2 to 4 weeks.
Do not worry if it turns into a yellowish fur. This is reasonable because lime sulfur contained in the anti ringworm shampoo causes the fur was yellow.
9. Monitor Your Cat’s Progress
It may take several weeks or months to cure ringworm in cats fully. It’s essential to monitor your cat’s progress and follow up with your veterinarian regularly. They may recommend additional treatments or suggest changes to your cat’s diet to boost their immune system.
FAQs About Ringworm In Cats
Q: Can I get ringworm from my cat?
A: Yes, ringworm is zoonotic, which means it can spread from animals to humans. It’s essential to practice good hygiene when handling infected animals and wash your hands thoroughly after handling them.
What is ringworm in cats?
Ringworm is a fungal infection that can affect the skin, hair, and nails of cats. It’s caused by various species of fungi, including Microsporum Canis, Microsporum gypseum, and Trichophyton species.
How is ringworm in cats transmitted?
Ringworm in cats is highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected animal, contaminated objects, or spores in the environment. It can also be transmitted from cats to humans and other animals.
What are the symptoms of ringworm in cats?
The symptoms of ringworm in cats can include circular patches of hair loss, crusty or scaly skin, and itching. The lesions may be red or gray, and the affected area may be inflamed or have pus. In severe cases, the cat may have systemic symptoms such as fever and lethargy.
Can I treat ringworm in cats at home?
While some mild cases of ringworm in cats may resolve on their own, it’s best to consult a veterinarian for treatment. They may prescribe topical or oral antifungal medication, as well as recommend environmental cleaning and disinfection.
How can I prevent the spread of ringworm in my home?
To prevent the spread of ringworm in your home, isolate the infected cat, clean and disinfect your home, and avoid direct contact with infected animals. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling infected animals or contaminated objects.
Can I prevent my cat from getting ringworm?
While it’s not always possible to prevent ringworm in cats, you can take steps to reduce the risk of infection. Keep your cat’s environment clean and dry, avoid contact with infected animals, and provide your cat with a healthy diet and regular veterinary care.
Bottom Line:
Curing ringworm in cats is a challenging but essential process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can effectively treat the infection and prevent its spread. Remember to consult a veterinarian, clean and disinfect your home, and monitor your cat’s progress regularly. With patience and diligence, you can help your furry friend recover from ringworm.
Thank you very much for reading How To Cure Ringworm In Cats, hopefully useful.
