Tips to Determine If Your Cat Has Ringworm

Animal ringworm is as infectious as human ringworm. Domesticated pets such as cats and dogs can be infected with the disease. In some cases, they are more severe than those that are found in humans. Ringworm is a common name called for skin infection caused by specific fungi that feeds on the dead cells of the skin, hair and nails. This is the reason why most ringworm can be found in a skin, scalp and near the tip of the toes or fingers. These fungi live in warm and moist body parts either of the human or in animals.

These are the three specific types of fungi that can cause animal ringworm:
1. Microsporum Canis
2. Microsporum gypseum which can also be found in dogs with a habit of digging from soil
3. Trichophyton mentagrophytes

The infection will cause lesion, redness and ring of scales in the infected area. Because the infection looks like worm, the disease was erroneously named. Ringworm that can be found in cats is characterized by the above description. Technically called as dermatophytosis, it takes in different shapes unlike in humans where it is usually ring shaped. Cat ringworm can be described as a grayish, dry and scaly patch around the cat’s body. Sometimes lesions and fluid like substance appear in the infected area.

This disease is transmissible to humans and shall be dealt with properly. Cat ringworm treatment is necessary to prevent transmission. This is more important if you share beds with your cats. The treatment can be made at home without the aid of a veterinary. The use of oral medicines with anti fungal effect is the primary option for fast cure and relief. They can be brought over the counter. However, it is advisable to ask the doctor what kind of fungi infects your pet cat to know what specific anti-fungal medicine you will use. There are animal shampoos available in the market to remove scalps and prevent ringworms that can also be used. Anti-fungal crème is also an option for immediate treatment. Alternative treatments can also be made. Anti-dandruff and human shampoos are believed to cure ringworms for it has ingredient necessary to kill fungi.