Ringworm (dermatophytosis) is a common fungal infection in shelter cats that historically led to mass euthanasia, but evidence-based treatment protocols now allow most cats to recover and be adopted.
Ringworm historically caused shelter massacres - entire cat populations euthanized due to fear of zoonotic spread and institutional resource constraints. The welfare revolution came through evidence-based protocols demonstrating that ringworm is manageable, not a death sentence. Foster programs are particularly effective as home environments are easier to decontaminate than shelters, and individual foster attention improves both treatment outcomes and socialization. Every shelter that adopts ringworm protocols instead of euthanasia represents a meaningful welfare advance.