Cat Ringworm Treatment and Prevention

Ringworm (dermatophytosis) is a fungal skin infection that spreads readily between cats and humans, requiring systematic treatment and environmental decontamination.

Key Facts

Ringworm is caused by Microsporum canis in most feline cases, not by a worm
It causes circular scaly lesions with hair loss, most commonly on the face, ears, and paws
Shelter cats and kittens are particularly susceptible and the infection spreads rapidly in group housing
Treatment requires both topical antifungal washes and systemic antifungals in most cases
Environmental decontamination is essential as spores persist on surfaces for up to 18 months

Welfare Considerations

Ringworm causes pruritic skin lesions and hair loss that are uncomfortable and can lead to secondary bacterial infection from scratching. In shelter environments, ringworm outbreaks cause welfare problems across entire cat populations and result in extended shelter stays that increase stress. Systematic treatment protocols in shelters, including environmental decontamination and identification of subclinical carriers, reduce the welfare burden on individual cats and improve adoption outcomes.

What You Can Do

Treat ringworm infections promptly with both topical and systemic antifungals as directed by your vet
Decontaminate the home environment thoroughly including bedding and soft furnishings
Use gloves when handling infected animals as ringworm is transmissible to humans
Isolate infected cats from other cats and vulnerable humans during treatment
Test apparently recovered cats with a fungal culture before returning to normal contact