How to get rid of ringworm on a cat? - briefly
Ringworm in cats is typically treated with a combination of topical antifungal creams and oral medications prescribed by a veterinarian. Additionally, it's important to thoroughly clean and disinfect the cat's environment to prevent reinfection and spread to other pets or humans.
How to get rid of ringworm on a cat? - in detail
Ringworm, also known as dermatophytosis, is a common fungal infection that can affect cats, causing hair loss and crusty skin lesions. To effectively treat ringworm in your feline companion, follow these comprehensive steps:
-
Diagnose the Infection: Ringworm is often diagnosed based on clinical signs, such as circular areas of hair loss with scaly or crusty skin. Your veterinarian may use a Wood's lamp to examine the affected area, as the fungus can fluoresce under UV light. However, not all types of ringworm will glow, so further testing like a fungal culture might be necessary for confirmation.
-
Isolate the Cat: Ringworm is highly contagious and can spread to other pets and humans. Isolate your cat in a separate room or area where it cannot come into contact with other animals or people. Use disposable gloves when handling the affected cat, and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
-
Treatment Options: Treating ringworm typically involves a combination of topical and oral medications:
- Topical Treatments: Topical antifungal creams, ointments, or shampoos can be used to treat the affected areas. Commonly prescribed topicals include miconazole, ketoconazole, or lime sulfur dips. Always follow your veterinarian's instructions for application.
- Oral Medications: Oral antifungal drugs such as itraconazole, terbinafine, or fluconazole are often necessary to treat ringworm effectively. These medications work by targeting the fungus systemically and are usually prescribed for a period of 6-10 weeks.
- Environmental Control: Since spores can linger in the environment, thorough cleaning is essential. Vacuum and clean all surfaces with a disinfectant that contains bleach or an enilconazole-based product. Wash bedding, toys, and any other items your cat has come into contact with in hot water (at least 130°F or 54°C).
-
Monitor Progress: Regularly monitor the affected areas for signs of improvement. Your veterinarian may perform follow-up tests to ensure the infection is clearing up. It's crucial to complete the full course of treatment, even if the cat appears to be better, to prevent recurrence.
-
Prevent Re-Infection: Ensure all pets in the household are treated and monitored for signs of ringworm. Continue thorough cleaning practices until your veterinarian confirms that the infection has been eliminated.
-
Human Precautions: Ringworm can also infect humans, so it's important to take precautions:
- Wear gloves when handling infected cats or their belongings.
- Wash hands thoroughly after contact.
- Inform family members and visitors about the infection to prevent spread.
By following these steps diligently, you can effectively manage and eliminate ringworm in your cat, ensuring a speedy recovery and preventing further spread of the infection.