Despite its name, ringworm is a fungal skin infection, not a worm. In cats it causes skin lesions and hair loss and is transmissible to humans. Proper diagnosis and treatment protects both cat and owner welfare.
Cats with ringworm experience skin irritation, hair loss, and the discomfort of treatment protocols that may include medicated baths and oral antifungals. The welfare impact is generally moderate for the cat but significant for household members who may develop skin lesions. The welfare priority is accurate diagnosis followed by consistent treatment until mycological cure is confirmed — stopping treatment prematurely based on clinical improvement leads to recurrence and prolonged exposure. Shelter cats with ringworm face particular welfare challenges as isolation protocols for treatment can cause significant psychological distress.