In cats, more than 90% of ringworm cases are the results of an infection by Microsporum canis. This fungus can also affect humans and dogs. Other uncommon dermatophytes that can infect cats include M persicolor, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, M fulvum, M gypseum and T terrestre.
Ringworm is a contagious disease in cats as well as humans. The spores of dermatophytes are the main culprits, as they cause the infections. They usually reside in clusters all around the cat’s infected air. They are very tiny and visible under a microscope.
Cats can contract ringworm in two ways. If they come in direct contact with another infected animal, the fungus can infect them. Another possible way is through exposure to environments or objects infected with the fungus. This could include their grooming tools and beds.
Cats quite often remove the spores harmlessly while grooming themselves. However, if the number of spores exceeds, the cat might suffer from infection. Professionals are yet unaware about the number of spores that causes ringworm infection.
Medication after diagnosis could be oral or topical, known as systematic therapy and topical therapy respectively. It is best to avoid self-medication and use drugs prescribed by the veterinarian. The vet must take great care, if the cat is a kitten or pregnant. The best way to aid in the disinfection of the cat is to keep the environment decontaminated. This is possible only if you decontaminate all the areas in the house that the cat had contacted. While treating ringworm, the cat should remain in one room of the house, which is easily cleanable. Everything that belongs to the cat should undergo decontamination and regular cleaning. In addition, it is advisable to keep children away from the cat until the ringworm infection is completely treated to avoid the spreading of infection.