Ringworm: Does Your Cat Have it?

by Marjorie Dorfman | More from this Blogger

27 Jun 2006 07:59 AM

Ringworm is one of those terms that doesn't say what it means or mean what it says. It has, in fact, nothing at all to do with worms (opening or closing cans of) or rings (trilogies, engagement, wedding, brass or through the nose). It is an infection caused by fungi that grow on the dead surface layers of the cat's skin and claws. On an infected animal, it will show itself in small hairless patches on the head, ears and tips of the paws. These patches have a gray, scaly "cigarette ash" appearance and are often inflamed. There is a great deal of variety as to both to the extent and irritation caused by these patches and, as a result, ringworm can easily be confused with a wide array of other skin conditions. Visual signs alone cannot tell the full story, and usually an infected animal must undergo diagnostic tests in order for a proper diagnosis to be made.

Ringworm is very contagious both in cats and other species, including homo-sapiens. If your cat is affected, you must insist on family members washing their hands thoroughly after handling an animal with this condition. In time, many cases eventually disappear, but the risk of transmission is so very high that it should be immediately and professionally treated.

Medical advice might generally include restricting the territory of the infected animal to a room that is easy to clean. (In my house, this wouldn't be possible.) Also, it is better to limit the infected animal's exposure to other pets and humans. Any toys, bedding or grooming tools that cannot be disinfected must be incinerated to avoid further contagion. The airborne spores are stubborn and an anti-fungal agent is needed to fight them effectively. The cat should be bathed regularly with a prescribed anti-fungal shampoo.

Do not substitute this advice for that of a professional. Consult your vet immediately about this condition, as he or she knows better that any non-medical sources.

See your pet through this difficult time. Better ones await on the other side of the door.

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Learn more about Marjorie Dorfman

Marjorie Dorfman is a freelance writer and former teacher originally from Brooklyn, New York.

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