Every pet owner wants the best for his or her pet, especially when it comes to their health and happiness. There are times when our pets may develop health problems that are not immediately apparent. One such condition is ringworm, a fungal infection that affects cats and dogs.
We'll walk you through everything you need to know about ringworm in pets: its symptoms, its causes, and how it's diagnosed. We'll also cover treatment options and how to prevent it from spreading. Here's how to tell if your pet has ringworm if you've ever wondered.
What is a Ringworm in a Pet?
Despite the name, ringworm is not caused by a worm at all. It’s actually a fungal infection that affects the skin, hair, and nails of animals and humans. The medical term for ringworm is dermatophytosis, and it’s caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes.
An area of the skin may become inflamed and scaly with ringworm due to the red, circular, and scaly patches it creates. The appearance of pets can, however, vary, especially if they have long fur covering most of their skin.
It's important to note that ringworm is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can spread from animals to humans. To prevent the spread of ringworm among your pets and family members, it is important to identify it and treat it early.
Symptoms of Ringworm in Pet
In pets, it can sometimes be difficult to recognize ringworm because its symptoms can look similar to those of other skin disorders. There are, however, a few signs you should look out for -
- Circular Bald Spots - When the fur falls out from a pet, there may be round patches of redness or scaling on the skin.
- Red, Scaly, or Crusty Skin - The skin in affected areas may appear irritated, flaky, or crusty.
- Itchiness and Scratching - Some pets may scratch or lick the infected area excessively, while others may not show any signs of discomfort. For itchiness you can check out our itchy skin care products for your furry friend.
- Broken or Brittle Hair - Hair around the infection site may break easily or have a rough texture.
- Inflammation - In some cases, the skin may be swollen or inflamed.
- Nail Abnormalities - In rare cases, ringworm can affect a pet’s nails, making them brittle or deformed.
These symptoms typically appear on the head, ears, paws, and legs, but can occur anywhere on the body. If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to consult your veterinarian.
Causes of Ringworm in Pet
Ringworm is highly contagious and can spread easily among animals and even to humans. Pets can contract ringworm through -
- Direct Contact with an Infected Animal - This is the most common way pets catch ringworm, especially in shelters, kennels, or homes with multiple pets.
- Contact with Contaminated Objects - Ringworm fungi can live on items like bedding, grooming tools, collars, toys, and furniture for weeks or even months.
- Exposure to Infected Soil - In some cases, spores in the soil can infect pets, particularly those who spend a lot of time outdoors.
Certain pets are more susceptible, such as -
- Kittens and puppies with immature immune systems
- Older pets with weakened immunity
- Pets with other health conditions
- Long-haired breeds, where fungi can thrive undetected
How Do Veterinarians Diagnose Ringworms in a Pet?
If you suspect your pet has ringworm, a trip to the vet is essential. Vets use several diagnostic methods to confirm ringworm -
1) A Wood’s Lamp
A Wood’s lamp is a special ultraviolet (UV) light used to examine the pet’s fur. Some strains of ringworm will glow a fluorescent green under this light. However, not all fungal species fluoresce, so this test is not always definitive.
2) A Fungal Culture
A fungal culture is considered one of the most reliable ways to diagnose ringworm. The vet collects hair, skin scrapings, or nail samples from the affected area and places them on a special medium to encourage fungal growth. It can take 1 to 3 weeks for results, but this method helps identify the specific fungus.
3) PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) Testing
PCR testing is a modern and highly accurate technique that detects the DNA of ringworm fungi in the sample. This test provides faster and more precise results compared to fungal cultures, often within a few days.
By using one or more of these methods, your vet can accurately diagnose the infection and recommend the best treatment plan.
Treatment for Ringworm in Pet
Treating ringworm requires patience and persistence, as the infection can be stubborn. The treatment plan typically includes a combination of the following -
1) Quarantine
If you have multiple pets or live with others, it’s crucial to isolate the infected pet to prevent the fungus from spreading. Set up a separate, easy-to-clean area where your pet can stay during treatment.
2) Topical Treatments (Applied to the Body)
Topical antifungal treatments are applied directly to the affected areas. These include -
- Medicated Shampoos - Help to cleanse the skin and reduce fungal spores.
- Antifungal Creams or Ointments - Applied on bald patches or lesions.
- Lime Sulfur Dips - A common and effective treatment that helps kill fungal spores on the pet’s skin and coat.
These treatments help reduce the spread of the fungus and speed up healing.
3) Oral Treatments (Medications Taken by Mouth)
In more severe or widespread cases, vets may prescribe oral antifungal medications, such as itraconazole, griseofulvin, or terbinafine. These medications help fight the infection from within and are typically given for several weeks.
4) Decontamination Procedures
Because ringworm spores can survive in the environment, thorough cleaning is essential. Some steps include -
- Washing pet bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water and disinfectant.
- Vacuuming carpets and furniture frequently to remove hair and spores.
- Disinfecting surfaces with appropriate cleaners that can kill fungi.
Consistent cleaning helps prevent re-infection and keeps your home safe for other pets and family members.
Recovery and Prevention of Ringworm in Pet
With proper treatment, most pets recover from ringworm within 4 to 8 weeks, though some cases may take longer. Regular follow-ups with your vet ensure the infection is fully cleared.
To prevent future ringworm infections -
- Practice Good Hygiene - Wash your hands after handling pets, especially if they have skin issues.
- Regular Grooming - Keep your pet’s coat clean and free from mats.
- Avoid Contact with Infected Animals - Be cautious when visiting places like shelters or pet daycares.
- Maintain a Clean Environment - Regularly clean your pet’s belongings and living areas.
- Boost Immune Health - A balanced diet and regular vet check-ups can strengthen your pet’s immune system.
Summary
Ringworm may sound alarming, but with early detection, proper treatment, and good hygiene, it can be effectively managed. You can defend your pet against this pesky fungal infection by keeping an eye on his or her skin and coat, regular grooming, and a clean home environment.
Whenever you suspect your pet might have ringworm, do not hesitate to consult your veterinarian. The sooner you get your pet's health in check, the better off you, your pet, and your household will be.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) How do dogs get ringworm?
Dogs can catch ringworm through direct contact with an infected animal, contaminated objects, or exposure to environments like soil that contain fungal spores. Puppies, senior dogs, and those with weakened immune systems are especially at risk.
2) How do you know if your pet has ringworm at home?
At home, look for bald patches, red and scaly skin, excessive scratching, or hair that appears broken or brittle. If you notice these signs, it’s best to consult a vet for proper diagnosis rather than trying to treat it on your own.
3) Will ringworm go away on its own in pets?
In some healthy animals, ringworm might eventually clear on its own, but this can take months. Meanwhile, the infection can spread to other pets and humans. It’s best to treat the infection promptly to prevent complications and reduce the risk of spreading.
