Ringworm is a very common form of skin disease found in both dogs and cats. Although its name suggests otherwise, this skin disease is not caused by any type of worm. It is actually caused by fungi called Dermatophytes which feed on the dead tissue present on the surface of the skin and spread over the skin of the animal.
In cats, a certain type of fungus, called M Canis, is present in nearly 95% of cases of ringworm. Normally, cats get ringworm disease from contaminated items like bedding, clippers, or another previously infected animal. If animals in or around your house have ringworm, your cat can very easily contract it this way.
If you have kittens or cats less than a year old in your home, you should always take precautions, as they are more susceptible to ringworm. Kittens can easily contract the disease, especially if you let them outside.
They can easily come into contact with a contaminated object or with another cat with the disease. Kittens need a long time to develop their immune system, and in the meantime, they are more susceptible to common diseases like ringworm.
The most common symptoms of ringworm in cats are rough or broken hair or loss of hair around the head or legs. Ringworm can easily be identified by a patch of scaly skin on the body that looks itchy and inflamed. There will also be broken hairs around the scaly patch of skin. This area is very sensitive and you should never try to touch it or you will injure your cat.
If you notice any of the above symptoms in your pet, you should make an appointment with your veterinarian immediately. If the vet diagnoses your cat with ringworm, they may prescribe an ointment or tablets. What he describes however will determine the severity of the ringworm.
If he prescribes tablets for your cat, you must give them during meals. The ointment, on the other hand, is normally applied to the coat, topically. You should always use what your veterinarian prescribes daily, to ensure your cat is cured. The healing process takes time, normally about six weeks or more.
Cats with ringworm should be labeled as infectious. If you have children at home, you should keep them away from your pet. Whenever you handle your cat, you should always use gloves.
Ringworms are contagious, and you should always exercise caution. Even though it is a mild illness, ringworm can lead to serious problems due to the slow healing and the fact that it is contagious.