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Is cat ringworm fatal?

Is cat ringworm fatal?

Ringworm in cats is not typically serious, but it can spread to people as well as other animals, such as dogs. Transmission occurs through direct contact between infected and uninfected individuals.

What are the symptoms of ringworm in cats?

The clearest and most common clinical signs of feline ringworm include the following: circular areas of hair loss, broken and stubbly hair, scaling or crusty skin, alterations in hair or skin color, inflamed areas of skin, excessive grooming and scratching, infected claws or nail beds, and dandruff.

How can I prevent my cat from getting ringworm?

Preventing cat ringworm is challenging but not impossible. First and foremost, a healthy cat with a healthy coat and skin is less likely to develop ringworm from contamination with the fungal spores. Nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity of a cat’s skin and hair follicles, where the fungal spores will fight to inhabit.

How does ringworm spread from cat to person?

The fungi spread to people primarily by contact with infected cats and contaminated objects, such as furniture or grooming tools. Broken hairs with associated spores are important sources for spread of the disease.

What does ringworm have to do with worms?

Despite its name, it is a fungal infection having nothing at all to do with worms. And the only thing it has to do with rings is the circular area of itchy rash that typically—but not necessarily—will appear on the skin of an infected animal.

The clearest and most common clinical signs of feline ringworm include the following: circular areas of hair loss, broken and stubbly hair, scaling or crusty skin, alterations in hair or skin color, inflamed areas of skin, excessive grooming and scratching, infected claws or nail beds, and dandruff.

Can you get ringworm from a stray cat?

Ringworm is zoonotic which means it passes between humans and animals with ease. Your own cat can give you ringworm just as easily as a stray. Ringworm spores do not discriminate! They will pick the best host for peaceful feeding. They make a meal out of keratin which is plentiful on all animal skin (humans included).

Can a longhaired cat have ringworm without hair loss?

Ringworm may sometimes cause a more generalized disease where a much larger area of the body is affected, often seen as patchy hair loss. Some cats, especially longhaired breeds, may have ringworm without any clinical signs or hair loss. This condition is known as an asymptomatic carrier state.

How long does it take for ringworm to heal in a cat?

Anti-fungal oral medications may also be needed to clear up dermatophytosis. Left alone, a cat’s body will eventually heal ringworm by itself. This approach is not recommended, though, as this can take as long as a year. Your cat will experience symptoms throughout this time, including itchy skin and fur loss.