Spotting Cat Ringworm Symptoms

The most common infectious skin disease in cats, cat
ringworm is not a worm, but a fungal infection. It is highly
contagious and can be spread to all the animals and people
in the house.

In many cases this disease resolves itself, without
treatment, within 6 to 8 weeks. Since it’s very common for
cats to pass this disease on, your veterinarian may
prescribe treatment anyway. Cats with compromised immune
systems may take longer to heal and may not heal at all
without treatment.

Ringworm is also referred to as dermatophytosis. It’s a
fungus which feeds on the keratin protein found in nails,
skin, and hair.

The classic ringworm symptom is seen as patches of hair loss
which look like circular scaly areas with raised edges.
These symptoms are fairly easy to spot. This disease gets
its name from the round ring-like marks it leaves on the
skin.

The most common locations for infection are the head, face,
ears, tail, and paws. Early symptoms include dry, flaky
skin. In addition, you may see bald areas on ears, the legs,
and around the eyes.

In severe cases in cats with compromised immune systems,
more serious symptoms may develop. If left untreated, crusty
lesions that may become red and sore, as well as infected
may develop.

Cat ringworm symptoms include broken hair and hair loss,
either in irregular or circular patterns throughout the
body, although some cats may lose no hair. You may also
notice bumpy, scaly, red, or inflamed skin, and deformed
claws. The affected areas may or may not itch.

Cat ringworm can only be diagnosed by your veterinarian, so
get in contact with your vet if you suspect your cat is
infected.

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