Ringworm
When is a Worm not a Worm? Ring Worm and your Cat
Ringworm is a typical skin disease that affects many cats. This medical condition is
actually not caused by worms at all, but rather by a fungus. The sores on the skin due to
ringworm fungi are circular, which led to the belief at once time that a curling worm
under the skin caused this disease. However, there are no worms involved. If you believe
that you cat may have ringworm, make sure that you have him or her see a vet to clear
the problem.
Ringworm is also called dermatophytosis. There are four species of fungi that cause
ringworm in a cat, and because some of these organisms are so well adapted to a cat's
body, about 20% of cats have ringworm and show no outward signs of the disease.
Ringworm commonly infected the dead skin, nails, and hair on an organism, using the
keratin in the tissue as food.
Both genetics and environment influence the development of ringworm in cats. For
example, research has shown that certain cat species develop the disease more readily.
Ringworm spreads quickly between cats, so those illegally or even legally breeding cats
may find this a problem. Ringworm caused the hair to break off at the skin and may be
itchy.
If your cat has ringworm, there are a lot of ways to treat it. First, medications can be
given to clear up the fungi found in the body. These may or may not have side effects, so
make sure your vet tells you they are safe for your cat. Anti-fungal shampoo baths may
also work. These baths should be given every day regularly and are great for cats that
don't mind the water. Lime sulfur dips, done weekly, can also be affective. If you have
other pets, they may need to be treated as well to prevent the ringworm from spreading.
Vaccines are available to help build an immunization to ringworm. If you cat has
extremely long hair, clipping it may be necessary.
Remember, ringworm can infect humans as well as cats, especially children. If your cat
has ringworm, or if you suspect this is the case, see your vet immediately. He or she can
recommend what course of action you should taken in order to help your cat overcome
the ringworm as well as to help the fungi from spreading to other animals and people in
your house.
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