How to determine if a cat has ringworm? - briefly
Ringworm in cats can be identified by circular, scaly patches of hair loss, often accompanied by redness or crusting on the skin. A veterinarian can confirm the diagnosis through a fungal culture or Wood's lamp examination.
How to determine if a cat has ringworm? - in detail
Ringworm, despite its name, is not caused by a worm but by a fungal infection that affects the skin, hair, and sometimes nails of cats. To identify if a cat has ringworm, observe the skin and coat for specific signs. One of the most common symptoms is the appearance of circular or irregular patches of hair loss, often accompanied by scaly, red, or inflamed skin. These lesions may appear on the head, ears, tail, or paws, but they can occur anywhere on the body. The affected areas may also be itchy, causing the cat to scratch or groom excessively, which can lead to further irritation or secondary infections. In some cases, the hair around the lesions may appear broken or stubbly, giving a rough texture to the coat. Another indicator is the presence of dandruff-like flakes or crusts on the skin. Cats with ringworm may also develop thickened or discolored nails if the infection spreads to the nail beds. It’s important to note that some cats can carry the fungus without showing obvious symptoms, making them asymptomatic carriers. To confirm a diagnosis, a veterinarian may use a Wood’s lamp, which emits ultraviolet light to detect fluorescent areas on the fur caused by certain types of ringworm fungi. However, not all ringworm fungi fluoresce, so additional diagnostic methods, such as microscopic examination of hair samples or fungal cultures, may be necessary. Fungal cultures involve collecting hair or skin samples and incubating them in a lab to identify the presence of the fungus. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent the spread of ringworm to other pets or humans, as it is highly contagious. If you suspect your cat has ringworm, consult a veterinarian promptly for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan, which may include antifungal medications, topical treatments, or environmental decontamination.