Ringworm (dermatophytosis) is a fungal infection causing significant welfare problems in shelter cat populations and is a leading cause of prolonged shelter stays and unnecessary euthanasia in some facilities.
Ringworm causes skin discomfort, pruritis, and secondary bacterial infection, but its biggest welfare impact in shelters is the extended confinement it causes. Cats with ringworm are frequently isolated for weeks or months, preventing socialisation and adoption, and leading some facilities to euthanise affected animals. Progressive treatment protocols using combination systemic and topical antifungal therapy, combined with environmental management, have shortened treatment times from months to 4-6 weeks in well-managed programmes. Supporting shelters in adopting evidence-based ringworm protocols directly saves feline lives and reduces suffering associated with prolonged confinement.