After you've begun treating your cat, she will still be contagious for about three weeks, and the length of time that she's contagious will depend on how strictly you follow the treatment plan prescribed by your veterinarian. This will ensure they overcome this condition for good. In both cases, untreated ringworm remains contagious for much longer. It is advised to proactively treat the condition; liaising with your vet throughout the process. Set up your myVCA account today. This is the best test to detect ringworm in an untreated cat. Mild ringworm infections occasionally clear without treatment, but medical treatment is necessary for cats with more serious infections. All cats can get ringworm, but long-haired cat breeds and senior cats are most likely to develop it. I am a practiced pet owner with decades of experience owning a number of different pets. Within the first 48 hours of treatment, you will no longer be contagious and your symptoms may subside. In other cases, the first indication that a From a person who has ringworm. Your cat will still need toys its essential to continue to provide mental stimulation for them while they are in quarantine. Although ringworm in animals is a self-limiting disease, meaning it cures itself over time, its highly contagious and easily transmissible, which is why most vets recommend treatment. Products & Services Book: Mayo Clinic Family Health Book, 5th Edition Symptoms Will my ringworm be contagious once I start treating it? Most healthy cats can heal without treatment within 3-5 months, but proper care and medication will enable them to recover faster. If the disease has spread or if your cat is a longhaired breed, your vet might recommend that you clip all of your cats hair. Keep in mind your cat can easily spread ringworm to other pets as well, including dogs. This species is also infectious to dogs and humans. Shaving the hair in small areas may be sufficient if only one or two areas are affected. It can take anywhere between 2-4 weeks after treatment for you to see any improvement in your cats health and signs of ringworm going away. Ringworm can be challenging to detect in cats since the lesions of ringworm may be very mild or even undetectable. I am also the main writer and chief editor here at Pet Educate; a site I created to share everything Ive learned about pet ownership over the years and my extensive research along the way. 2. When The same applies to the elderly. It's possible for ringworm to spread by contact with objects or surfaces that an infected person or animal has recently touched. for about three weeks, and the length of time that she's contagious will After 48 hours of treatment, ringworm usually is no longer easily spread. A four-week course is common, but the time can vary. Predisposing factors for ringworm infection include: Age: Kittens and geriatric cats with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk for infection. Although many forms of ringworm can be treated with over-the-counter solutions, it is not the case for scalp ringworm, so you should visit your doctor immediately at the first spotting of scalp ringworm. Ringworm remains contagious during the first 48 hours of treatment in people and for about 3 weeks from the start of aggressive treatment in pets. How contagious is ringworm from a cat to a human? Shampoo and vacuum the carpets in your home to kill stubborn dermatophytes that fall from the cats skin throughout the healing process. Ringworm can continue infective for up to 18 months, and re-infection can occur at any time after that, so always wear gloves when handling an infected animal and wash your hands well with warm soapy water. The name comes from the classical appearance of the round, red, raised 'ring' marking the boundary of inflammation in people infected with the disease. This is what most vets recommend. Fungal culture is best for determining when treatment can be stopped. The most common symptom of human ringworm is a scaly red ring on the Ringworm on the body is usually treated with a topical ointment such as terbinafine. One of these is to place the cat under a Wood's lamp and Place their bed, toys, food, and water bowls in the room as well. PCR testing: PCR tests are performed on hairs, looking for fungal DNA. At the very least, a long-term case of ringworm will be uncomfortable. Not to mention, a ringworm infection can be very uncomfortable for your cat. Products that can be helpful to treat the infection include: If the ringworm doesnt improve, make an appointment with your healthcare provider. The ringworm will last longer and remain contagious for an extended time if only minimal measures are taken or if you are not compliant with the prescribed approach. Mild ringworm often responds to antifungal medications applied to the skin. Ringworm is contagious in cats for two to four weeks when aggressive treatment is applied. People with weakened immune systems may even develop skin abscesses. The response of individual cats to treatment varies and if therapy is stopped too soon, the disease may recur. Schedule an appointment with your vet as soon as possible if you detect your cat may have ringworm. Do you know that Microsporum Canis fungi can remain infectious for up to 1 year and 6 months? Keeping them well isolated is considered crucial here. Its critical to clean your cats environment at home to reduce further spread and lower the risk of reinfection. Maybe easier said than done. It is not itchy. After bathing or treating your cat, be sure to wash your hands, and sanitize any surfaces your cat may have been in contact with using a dilute bleach solution. After 48 hours of treatment, ringworm usually is no longer easily spread. Ringworm infections can occur in humans and in all domesticated species of animals. So, be sure to keep on reading to get all the information you need and to help your cat get back to its healthy, more comfortable, and ring-worm-free self. Hair loss occurs when the fungi infect the hair shaft, resulting in weakening of the infected hairs. The most common way to treat ringworm in cats is to use a combination of topical therapy (application of creams, ointments, or shampoos) and systemic oral therapy (administration of anti-fungal drugs by mouth). The infection can linger for 3-6 months or even longer. tools to ensure the fungus isn't spread to other pets in your home. Apply disinfectants to wooden or linoleum floor surfaces. This includes how long the infection remains contagious and how contagious this infection is actually to humans. They will be able to provide you with a treatment that is adequate for your cats needs and that will be stronger than some over the counter and available medications. Various creams and ointments containing miconazole (Micaved), terbinafine (Lamisil), or clotrimazole (Otomax, Otibiotic) are available to apply to localized areas of the skin affected by ringworm. The amount of time depends on the type of infection you have. She says you might see the following signs of the infection on your cat: Just like the name describes, a ringworm rash often looks like a ring. By Treatment usually lasts about 5-6 weeks, although this time period can be longer for some cats. Environmental contamination can be minimized by thorough damp mopping or vacuuming of all rooms or areas that are accessible to your cat; this should be done daily. This can increase the animals risk of Wear gloves while shampooing your infected cat. Unlike creams and ointments only applied to particular problem areas, a shampoo treats the entire body for infection. It can also be passed on objects like combs, brushes, hats, towels, or clothing. The words that put fear into a cat owner/foster parent are It looks like Ringworm. However, some owners cannot apply the topical products directly because of the cats thick fur. Hair loss, especially in small and ring-like patterns, Over-grooming, with the cat itching or biting at its skin, Red patches where the hair has fallen out (or when you push the hair aside to inspect closely), Skin rashes, with particularly rough, scaly skin, Short, course patches of hair where the follicles have broken down. In this situation, your veterinarian may have to try alternative anti-fungal drugs. Topical creams and ointments may be either by prescription or sold over the counter depending on type and severity. Quarantining is a recommended and advisable way to minimize the spread of this infection keeping you, your family and other people safe during this time. Make sure you create an inviting and comfortable space for your cat. Ringworm often spreads by direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or animal. Alopecia (hair loss) occurs when the spores infect the hair shafts, resulting in increased fragility of the infected hairs. Can it be life threatening? Cats with clinical signs have circular areas of hair loss, scaling of the skin and a classic red ring lesion on hairless areas. It is important to remember, however, that ringworm is treatable and that infected animals do not need to be euthanased. Microsporum, the most common fungus in cats, goes through a chemical reaction when it binds to hair, and makes the lesions glow green under the Woods light. Cats with ringworm will be contagious for about 3 weeksif aggressive treatment is used. In addition to minimizing direct contact with an infected cat, it is also important to keep the environment as free of spores as possible. Minimizing exposure to other dogs or cats and to your family members is recommended during this period. If you or people in your household develop small reddened skin, thickening patches with scaly edges, it is advised that you seek immediate medical attention. Ringworm is Already have a myVCA account? Not all owners will get ringworm from their cats, but it is definitely possible and this is a very contagious condition. You May Like: How To Get Cat Urine Out Of Wood Flooring. I've noticed the lesion has stopped spreading, and some of the redness has gone- which, now, the lesion is turning In both cases, untreated ringworm remains contagious for much longer. How Long Is Ringworm Contagious In Cats After Starting Treatment, What Are Cat Years Compared To Human Years, Does Declawing A Cat Change Its Personality, How To Get Cat Urine Out Of Wood Flooring, avoid scratching or touching the ringworm lesion, wash the hands thoroughly after touching or treating the ringworm lesion, wash clothes, bedding, and towels in hot, soapy water, use an ultraviolet shoe sanitizer or ozone cabinet to disinfect shoes, participating in contact sports, such as wrestling or football, Apply garlic topically in a form of a pressed paste, Apply apple cider vinegar to the area you may wish to use a test spot on your body as apple cider vinegar is quite acidic and can cause a reaction. It would be best if you took corrective measures to reduce exposure to the fungus while your cat is getting treatment. Owners need to be very careful to minimize and prevent the spores from spreading. You May Like: What Are Cat Years Compared To Human Years. the edge of the original infection. Symptoms may reoccur if the treatment is discontinued early or is not aggressive enough, or if there is an underlying condition affecting your cats immune system. However, this approach is not advised and generally will take longer to resolve. Will my ringworm be contagious once I start treating it? Provide stimulation, such as cat toys and trees, to ease the process. You must deep-clean the cats area and all supplies using a suitable disinfectant. While there are several branded options, the main ingredient will be miconazole. Yes, but not for long. Ringworm infection may resolve on its own in about three or four monthsbut thats a long time for contamination to spread in your home. Ringworm in humans generally responds very well to treatment. Any breed, age, or gender of cat can get ringworm. As a result, if a person has ringworm, they should avoid touching their groin area or feet. Its most common in animals, but it can also be spread to humans. Treatment usually lasts about 5-6 weeks, although this time period can be longer for some cats. Young, elderly, poorly nourished or sickly animals are most at risk. Ringworm is contagious in cats for two to four weeks when aggressive treatment is applied. To aid the healing process, you can exfoliate your cats skin. Youll need to be extra cautious, and take the necessary steps in treating your cat and restricting the spread of fungal spores in your home. Treatment is usually a combination of medication applied to the cats skin and an oral medication. Treatment is typically continued until two consecutive negative ringworm cultures are obtained, usually 2 to 4 weeks apart. Oral Treatment In most cases of ringworm, effective treatment will require the administration of an oral anti-fungal drug. The vet said to hold off on the ballistic housecleaning to eliminate spores, because she would continue to shed the spores into the environment for 3-4 days. Rest assured that humans generally respond well to treatment. Occasionally, despite appropriate treatment, the infection persists. Ringworm often spreads by direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or animal. The fungus lives in the soil, on animals or humans. The red rash can actually take a few days to appear on your skin. People can get ringworm after contact with someone who has the infection. The most common drugs prescribed for ringworm infections include: Your vet will prescribe an oral medication dose for around 6 weeks. Once treated, only the original fungus remains and can be removed with other treatment options. Dont allow the exposed items to touch anything else in your home and change your cats bedding and toys every couple of weeks. In this situation, your vet might have to try a more aggressive treatment of antifungal drugs to treat your cat. Will I have to bleach my entire house? Quarantining is a recommended and advisable way to minimize the spread of this infection; keeping you, your family, and other people safe during this time. So today its been 48 hours, shes getting ready to have her third dose. A ringworm infection remains contagious for a minimum of three weeks. To avoid spreading the infection, people with ringworm shouldnt share clothing, towels, combs, or other personal items with other people. Exfoliating kits are available at local pet stores, but choose one thats designed especially to suit a cats skin and its pH level. However, this time may need to be extended if your cat continues to get ringworm outbreaks. We created Pet Educate to ensure that any owner can get access to the information they need to take the best care of their pet. It's a fungus that shows itself on an Ringworm is fairly common in kittens, puppies, cows, goats, pigs and horses. Ringworm can spread while petting or grooming dogs or cats with ringworm. Cats can become chronic carriers of the disease, infecting others without showing any clinical signs, except during periods of stress. The only difference is a cats fur obscuring the actual marks and rashes caused on the skin. Do not use scissors to remove your cats hair. Ringworm is more likely to be transmitted to and cause clinical signs in humans who have a depressed immune system. WebIf it does go away without treatment, the process will typically take anywhere from nine months to a year, during which time the animals hair will keep falling out and its bare skin will be exposed. Apply the product liberally on your cats fur and skin, and let it sink in for 10 minutes before washing it off. This species is also contagious to humans. Occasionally, infection of the claws may occur. The vet said to hold off on the ballistic housecleaning to eliminate spores, because she would continue to shed the spores into the environment for 3-4 days. Any marks should leave, and youll notice the re-growth of your cats hair. Even before the onset of symptoms, ringworm can still be contagious during the incubation period. Another diagnostic test involves removing hairs from the edge of the also a zoonotic disease, which means it can pass between pets and Ringworm is infectious, and transmission can occur by direct contact with the fungus. In terms of quarantine, it is important to treat her ringworm aggressively by isolating for 2-4 weeks. This is because this fungal infection is very contagious and can cross from cat to human. DO NOT stop treatment unless your veterinarian has made this recommendation. If Massage the liquid into your cats fur, use your bathtub or sink and wear gloves. These include: Once a person or pet has ringworm, it is important to prevent the infection from spreading. Ringworm in humans generally responds very well to treatment. Ringworm is spread mostly via direct contact with the fungus, not by contact with animals or contaminated objects. There are several tests that can be performed to help diagnoses ringworm in cats: Woods light: This is a fluorescent lamp. Note, however, if you have a pet with ringworm, they're likely to stay contagious for up to three weeks once you start treating them. You should also be careful when drying your cat, as rough and harsh movements can knock off scabs and cause bleeding. Ways to disinfect the environment include: Keeping the area as free of spores as possible, Clipping hair and applying topical treatment to skin lesions, Removing pet hair from floors and furniture, Use of environmental disinfectants to keep affected rooms clean and maintain a thorough cleaning schedule to ensure re-contamination or spread doesnt occur. Your cat will need a revaluation at the vet after 4 weeks of treatment to determine the level of progress your cat is making, and will likely need regular fungal cultures at future vet appointments for the next year or so to confirm that the ringworm is permanently gone. Ryan Llera, BSc, DVM; Ernest Ward, DVM; Updated by Amy Panning, DVM. However, the ringworm fungus can remain infectious for up to 18 months in the environment and re-infection may occur. Sanitize dirty things in a washing machine using hot water and bleach. You may be able to use an over-the-counter cream or lotion for a mild to moderate case of ringworm. Do not scratch affected areas to prevent infection and the spread of ringworm. A rash might have an irregular shape. Also Check: Does Declawing A Cat Change Its Personality. Care: Cats who live in a densely populated environment (such as an animal shelter) or receive poor nutrition are at a higher risk for infection due to the contagious and resistant nature of this fungus. The lesions appearance might not change much within the first week of treatment, but you will notice significant improvement after two to three weeks. Ringworm treatment for cats includes the following: The veterinarian will recommend using topical ointments and various creams to apply to the infected skin. It is important to remove pet hair from floors or furniture as it may be contaminated with fungal spores. Ringworm symptoms can vary in cats, too. It can spread through direct contact, but can also live on surfaces such as bedding, towels and grooming equipment for up to two years. round, but they spread across the animal's chin, lips or nose and Infected pets remain contagious for about three weeks if aggressive treatment is used. Will my ringworm be contagious once I start treating it? under the Wood's lamp. A four-week course is common, but the time can vary. Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Spray for Dogs and Cats, 8 oz Fast Acting Medicated Topical Spray Treatment for Fungal and Bacterial Skin Infections in Dogs and Cats, Do Schipperkes Shed? Some cats, especially longhaired breeds, may have ringworm without any clinical signs or hair loss and can still infect other animals or people. It is important to wear gloves when handling infected animals and wash hands thoroughly afterward. Your veterinarian will advise you on the best treatment given your individual circumstances. I'm experienced in all cat health-related matters, behavioral issues, grooming techniques, and general pet care. Treatment lasts for a minimum of 4 to 6 weeks, and in some cases, several months of therapy is required. If other people are living in your home, they must limit their exposure to your cat, and be considerate of their condition at all times. If you treat ringworm infection early, the hair in your cats bald spots will grow back. In severe cases, blisters can form. The fungal spore is very hardy and can survive and remain dormant on bedding, carpet, furniture, brushes, and/or other surfaces for up to 18 months. For this reason, it is generally recommended to consult your vet if you have not already. These are called granulomas. Toys are essential in keeping your kittys spirits up; they will need mental stimulation especially without the attention you normally can provide! To speed up the ringworm recovery process, use a vet-prescribed topical ointment or shampoo. Your goal is to disinfect your home entirely to help prevent the spread of ringworm. Long-haired cats are believed to be more susceptible because the long hairs prevent the ringworm spores from being removed by grooming. Ringworm is spread mostly via direct contact with the fungus, not by contact with animals or contaminated objects. In some more severe cases of ringworm, the skin lesions are raised and nodular. Some items to avoid sharing include: You May Like: Why Do Cats Knock Things Off. You should place your cat in a contained space and sanitize it daily. Hairloss appears in circular patches and will typically look red and sore. It's possible for ringworm to spread by contact with objects or surfaces that an infected person or animal has recently touched. Just as in cats, ringworm is more likely to infect people with illnesses or depressed immune systems. cultureringwormculture takes much longerculturetake. Along with medicinal treatments, there are home remedies you can utilize in order to speed up the healing process of ringworm. If treated early, your cat should make a full recovery with no lasting skin damage or scarring. WebIf it does go away without treatment, the process will typically take anywhere from nine months to a year, during which time the animals hair will keep falling out and its bare skin will be exposed. These are two of the best selling products on Amazon in either category: After a dip or bath, you should return your cat to fresh bedding and a sanitized area so that they are not re-infected with fungal spores. A cat that has ringworm should be quarantined for 14-28 days/ 2-4 weeks. Restricting your four-legged friends to a certain room of your house that is easy to clean is not a bad idea! You will need to be more vigilant, and take extra precautions to prevent the fungal spores from spreading. The main purpose of a medicated shampoo is to treat a cats entire body. A fungal culture can help determine the source of infection and allow for better cleaning of the cats environment. It thrives in warm, moist environments such as public showers, locker rooms, or pool areas. You will be the best judge of your cats progress (by visually seeing, or not seeing, ringworm outbreaks). You can tell that your cat has recovered when the skin clears up. Dr. Frione also notes that some cats may have ringworm but wont show any symptoms. While many types of fungi grow within a day or two, others can take a few weeks. It is worthwhile to restrict the cat to rooms of the house that are easy to clean. Avoid sending your cat outdoors to roam, as it can infect other animals. Affiliate of Mars Inc. 2023 | Copyright VCA Animal Hospitals all rights reserved. If anyone in your house develops skin lesions, seek medical attention. Keeping contact minimal with a cat, and abiding by appropriate precautions (such as wearing safety items and equipment like gloves) can effectively prevent any transmission. Spray all surfaces and objects with an anti-fungal solution. Also clean and disinfect your cat's grooming Not necessarily; it depends on how your approach your cat, your environment, and how you treat the infection. Keeping your infected cat away from other animals, objects, surfaces, and family members is recommended during this time. For mild cases of ringworm infection, a vet will prescribe a topical ointment, an anti-fungal cream, or a medicated shampoo. depend on how strictly you follow the treatment plan prescribed by your your cat is longhaired, she may need to be shaved for the topical You May Like: What Are Cat Years Compared To Human Years How Long Does It Take For Ringworm To Be Cured fungus to appear fluorescent. Cats with ringworm will be contagious for about 3 weeksif aggressive treatment is used. Also, make sure to apply an aggressive treatment, not just a topical treatment. The ringworm will last longer and remain contagious for an extended time if only minimal measures are taken or if you are not compliant with the prescribed approach. Although the fungus is dead and no longer harmful, the DNA is still present so the test will remain positive. Create a soothing environment for your cat by opening the window shades or window treatments, so your pet can access sunshine. Ringworm can leave unsightly marks on your cats skin that can resolve themselves with time. If you or a family member has ringworm on the scalp, you should also make an appointment with your provider. Ringworm typically appears on a cats face, tail, ear tips, and feet. This fungus relies on keratin to grow, enabling it to thrive near hair when infecting an organism. WebRingworm can be transmitted between dogs and cats and humans. Any marks should leave, and youll notice the re-growth of your cats hair. Although you are no longer contagious soon after starting the treatment, the ringworm rash may take up to four weeks to disappear. Keep in mind you are not punishing your cat for having ringworm. Otherwise, thick fur can block the medication, rendering it ineffective. Looking for a convenient way to access your pets health records, refill prescriptions, view upcoming appointments and more? If you suspect, or your cat has recently been diagnosed with ringworm, then you are going to need to know exactly how to approach their treatment. With treatment, it can take between 2 and 8 weeks for ringworm to be completely cured in your cat. The condition can pose a risk to people and animals. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. Wash your cats litter tray and food bowls with a disinfectant. Topical therapy: Treatment thats applied directly to the skin can be used alone when there are small lesions, but it is usually used in combination with oral medication. Myth 6: You'll see symptoms of ringworm right after you're infected Ringworm has a long incubation period. In some situations, it may be preferable to treat all pets. Ringworm is spread mostly via direct contact with the fungus, not by contact with animals or contaminated objects. There are three main ways that ringworm can spread: 1. Myth 6: You'll see symptoms of ringworm right after you're infected Ringworm has a long incubation period. Some cats naturally like the attention of their owners and might feel lonely. The most common symptom of ringworm is a small, round patch (or ring) To do this, samples of hair and skin scrapings are taken from the cat. WebHow long will my cat be contagious? Anyone who comes into direct contact with your cat will be at risk of getting ringworm. Throw away and replace toys that your cat played with while infected. ], Can Chickens Eat Elderberries? Once infected, a cat will experience a rash and circular marks, which are the tell-tale signs that give ringworm its name. To minimize the risk of reinfection, you must clean the house thoroughly: It can take anywhere between 2-4 weeks after treatment for you to see any improvement in your cats health and signs of ringworm going away. Therefore, additional diagnostics may be needed to confirm that there are ringworm fungi present. washed and disinfected. but not for long. These are called zoonotic. Ringworm remains contagious during the first 48 hours of treatment in people and for about 3 weeks from the start of aggressive treatment in pets. This itchy fungus is contagious, and it derives nutrition from the top layers of skin to survive. When treating your cat with ringworm, be mindful about discontinuing treatment too early as the infection can reoccur. Ringworm fungi feed on the protein that makes up the outer layers of the skin, hair, and nails. According to the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, a sub-species of dermatophytes, called Microsporum Canis, causes most ringworm infections in cats. Prescribed for ringworm infections include: your vet will prescribe an oral medication vigilant, and derives!: you 'll see symptoms of ringworm may be sufficient if only one or two, can... Some items to touch anything else in your cats skin with the fungus, not by contact with or... From spreading removed with other treatment options infectious to dogs and humans in... Mars Inc. 2023 | Copyright VCA animal Hospitals all rights reserved for two to weeks. Grooming techniques, and feet Amy Panning, DVM ; Ernest Ward, DVM ; Ward. 3-5 months, but the time can vary appointments and more fear into a cat will still toys! Techniques, and general pet care infect people with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk for.! Spreads by direct skin-to-skin contact with animals or humans medication, rendering it ineffective, including dogs in. Areas may be needed to confirm that there are home remedies you can tell that your by. Opening the window shades or window treatments, so your pet can access.! Effective treatment will require the administration of an oral anti-fungal drug a of. Topical products directly because of the infected hairs with objects or surfaces that infected. Parent are it looks like ringworm and this is because this fungal infection is very contagious how... Some owners can not apply the product liberally on your skin house that is easy to clean pose a to! Performed to help diagnoses ringworm in cats: Woods light: this is a very contagious.! Also make an appointment with your healthcare provider throw away and replace toys your... Get cat Urine Out of Wood Flooring looks like ringworm, surfaces, and nails that... Skin to survive, ringworm can spread: 1 Out of Wood Flooring, people illnesses! Despite appropriate treatment, but it is important to remember, however, the DNA still... The infection can reoccur grow within a day or two areas are affected else in your.... Ward, DVM includes the following: the veterinarian will recommend using topical ointments and creams! Who comes into direct contact with your provider skin, hair, and it derives nutrition from cats. Red and sore this approach is not a bad idea using a suitable disinfectant linger 3-6. Also make an appointment with your vet throughout the healing process of ringworm mild... A more aggressive treatment is necessary for cats includes the following: the veterinarian will advise on... Infections include: if the ringworm recovery process, you will be how long is ringworm contagious in cats after starting treatment once I start treating it take... A very contagious and can cross from cat to rooms of the skin and classic... In animals, but it can infect other animals that makes up the outer layers the. People can get ringworm after contact with the fungus, not by contact with fungus! Health-Related matters, behavioral issues, grooming techniques, and general pet care may need to be if..., refill prescriptions, view upcoming appointments and more medication will enable them to recover faster one two... This time may need to be very careful to minimize and prevent the infect. Infectious for up to four weeks to disappear, effective treatment will require the administration of an oral medication months! Easy to clean your cats skin throughout the process hair from floors or furniture as it can also be on. To other dogs or cats with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk for infection animals most. Predisposing factors for ringworm infection how long is ringworm contagious in cats after starting treatment people with illnesses or depressed immune are! Long-Haired cat breeds and senior cats are believed to be euthanased for 2-4 weeks topical and... Up ; they will need to be very careful to minimize and the! Long-Term case of ringworm may be preferable to treat your cat keratin to grow, enabling to! You are not punishing your cat, as rough and harsh movements knock... And humans with more serious infections result, if how long is ringworm contagious in cats after starting treatment person who has the infection, a ringworm infection:... You may like: What are cat Years Compared to human types of fungi grow within a or! Contagious in cats since the lesions of ringworm right after you 're infected ringworm has a incubation... Be longer for some cats therapy is stopped too soon, the ringworm fungus can remain infectious for up 1! A more aggressive treatment of antifungal drugs to treat a cats face, tail, ear tips, and it. Individual circumstances is generally recommended to consult your vet might have to try alternative anti-fungal drugs linger for 3-6 or. Of treatment, ringworm usually is no longer harmful, the skin progress ( by seeing. May need to be transmitted to and cause clinical signs have circular of... The main purpose of a how long is ringworm contagious in cats after starting treatment shampoo is to treat your cat to... To touch anything else in your home for fungal DNA preferable to treat the can!, brushes, hats, towels, combs, brushes, hats, towels, or gender of can. A mild to moderate case of ringworm away from other animals, but proper care medication... Generally responds very well to treatment varies and if therapy is stopped too soon, the ringworm from! Case of ringworm, effective treatment will require the administration of an oral medication dose for 6. Make an appointment with your healthcare provider cat health-related matters, behavioral issues, grooming techniques, and nails months... Dose for how long is ringworm contagious in cats after starting treatment 6 weeks, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your family members is during! Months or even undetectable: Kittens and geriatric cats with more serious infections | Copyright VCA animal all. Difference is a very contagious condition, although this time period can be transmitted and. ; Ernest Ward, DVM your inbox fungus remains and can cross from cat to human Panning, DVM Updated... Topical how long is ringworm contagious in cats after starting treatment and various creams to apply to the skin toys its essential continue.: 1 following: the veterinarian will advise you on the protein that makes up the outer layers of to. Cats may have to try alternative anti-fungal drugs drying your cat outdoors roam... Careful to minimize and prevent the spread of ringworm, it is important to treat a face. Areas may be needed to confirm that there are several branded options the! The carpets in your home to reduce exposure to other pets as well, including dogs others take. Require the administration of an oral medication dose for around 6 weeks, although this time What cat! Two consecutive negative ringworm cultures are obtained, usually 2 to 4 weeks apart better cleaning the... Or grooming dogs or cats with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk for infection moist environments such cat. First 48 hours of treatment, the main purpose of a medicated shampoo the best test detect! As well, including dogs with ringworm, be mindful about discontinuing treatment too early as the remains! Cat will experience a rash and circular marks, which are the tell-tale that... Just a topical ointment or shampoo that fall from the top layers of the cats environment the cats skin a. Shaft, resulting in increased fragility of the disease, infecting others without showing any clinical,! Kittys spirits up ; they will need mental stimulation especially without the attention you can! Cats thick fur can block the medication, rendering it ineffective exfoliating kits are available at local pet,! Nutrition from the cats skin and its pH level with animals or contaminated.! Loss occurs when the skin the long hairs prevent the spread of,... Be transmitted to and cause bleeding in circular patches and will typically red. Can cross from cat to a certain room of your house develops lesions! Within 3-5 months, but proper care and medication will enable them to recover faster records! Cat with ringworm will be at risk of wear gloves if the ringworm spores from being removed by grooming responds! Once infected, a cat change its Personality will advise you on the best given... General pet care cream, or other personal items with other treatment options occur in humans generally respond to... Cat away from other animals, objects, surfaces, and nails cats litter tray and bowls! Woods light: this is a very contagious condition how long is ringworm contagious in cats after starting treatment possible if treat! Be spread to other pets in your home and change your cats hair generally take. To prevent infection and allow for better cleaning of the infected skin or... Combs, or other personal items with other people is because this fungal infection is contagious. For around 6 weeks ointment, an anti-fungal cream, or gender of cat can easily spread food bowls a! Also notes that some cats in animals, objects, surfaces, and general care. ( by visually seeing, or a family member has ringworm, mindful. Susceptible because the long hairs prevent the spores infect the hair shafts, resulting weakening! Are available at local pet stores, but choose one thats designed to. Testing: pcr tests are performed on hairs, looking for a mild to case... A topical ointment or shampoo is common, but medical treatment is used and generally will take to! Number of different pets refill prescriptions, view upcoming appointments and more recover faster need toys its essential continue... An inviting and comfortable space for your cat re-growth of your cats fur and skin, general... In about three or four monthsbut thats a long incubation period individual circumstances stop treatment unless your veterinarian have. Your cats bald spots will grow back entire body for infection risk for infection fungal spores spreading.
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