Cat Ringworm - What It Is, The Symptoms Of It, And Treatment For Your Cat

We did not include cat ringworm in the "cat worms" page because it is actually not a worm - it's a fungus (kind of like athlete's foot). It can be passed to your cat from other animals, people or from the soil.

Ringworm is more common in young cats (under 1 year old), senior cats, or cats who have a depressed immune system from another illness.

The size of the infection can range from a tiny little spot to a large bald patch of cat hair loss.

Signs And Symptoms Of Cat Ringworm:

• A rapidly growing, circular area of hair loss. The hair may be completely gone or may be only "stubble" in this patch.


• Skin may be gray, or red and scaly/scabbed in patches.


• Some cats may find the patches itchy, but most do not.

Your vet can diagnose ringworm easily: one type of ringworm glows green under a ultraviolet light, the others will need a lab test to diagnose.

Depending on the health of your cat and the size of the infected area, your vet may prescribe either a topical cream or a course of pills. The pills enter the cat's system and bind to the new hair growth and prevent the fungus from taking hold.

If your cat has been diagnosed with ringworm, make sure to wash your hands regularly during the treatment. You will also need to thoroughly clean the house and throw out their bedding, or wash in hot water and put through a hot dryer.


Return To Cat Worms
Return To Cat Hair Loss

Return To Quality Cat Care Home