The most common disease affecting cats is ringworm. This condition doesn't go away without a trace and requires treatment. For this reason, a pet can't survive without the help of its owner.
This type of pet disease is caused by two types of microscopic fungi—Microsporum and Trichophyton. In this case, the type of ringworm may be called microsporia or trichophytosis. Despite this, the disease has similar symptoms and treatment options.
Fungal microorganisms produce numerous spores that spread very quickly not only throughout the cat's body but also throughout the entire environment. leaves particles of fungus literally everywhereFor this reason, veterinarians advise taking immediate action and beginning treatment for your cat, especially if there is a small child in the house.
Characteristics of ringworm
The main reason ringworm in cats is a weakened immune system. Therefore, the cat should be vaccinated and fed a proper diet.
Scientists have proven that ringworm fungal spores persist in the environment for quite a long time, and are resistant to even the strongest disinfectants. This can lead to a relapse—a reinfection of the cat with these parasites.
Ringworm most often affects young kittens, as adult felines have a strong immune system.
The main symptoms of the disease
Exists list of main features the presence of ringworm in a pet:
- focal hair loss that tends to increase;
- the appearance of a rash;
- the affected skin turns red and peels;
- itching.
The fungus most often occurs in the head and neck area, although in rare cases, it can also affect the extremities and tail. It's crucial to detect the condition early and begin treatment, as fungi spread quickly throughout the body and can infect other areas of the skin.
In its early stages, ringworm can be confused with other conditions. Therefore, consulting a veterinarian is essential.
Causes of infection in cats
It's very easy to become infected with ringworm: just a few minutes of contact with another sick animal or an object containing fungal spores is enough.
As mentioned earlier, fungal microorganisms live in the external environment for a long period of time, it is for this reason that the disease often returns again.
Another cause of the disease is poor pet care. If a cat has an improper diet and chronic illnesses, it will have a weakened immune system, which is the primary cause of ringworm infection.
Contact with a stray cat can also be dangerous for a cat. In this case, a pet living indoors should not have contact with other cats.
If a cat catches mice, this can cause infection, as rodents are carriers of various diseases.
If a cat lives in an apartment and it is unclear where ringworm was found, most likely fungal spores were brought into the premises. on the sole of the shoeFor this reason, it is necessary to vaccinate your pet regularly and visit the veterinarian once a year.
Diagnosis of lichen
A self-examination of a cat is not enough to diagnose ringworm. In this case, a fluorescence analysis is necessary. This procedure involves shining ultraviolet light through the fur. If the disease is present, the fur will have a green tint.
Some veterinary clinics may also perform other tests to confirm the diagnosis, such as a scraping of the affected area. This type of examination allows the fungal spores living on the cat's body to be examined under a microscope, allowing for better treatment options.
Treatment of ringworm in cats
After the veterinarian has examined your pet and made a diagnosis, the doctor develops a specific treatment plan, which in most cases is standard. It's worth noting that complete recovery is usually occurs in 1–1.5 months.
First, the affected areas of the cat's body should be treated with special antiseptics. Due to the fur, it will be difficult to completely treat the entire skin. Your pet may lick these areas, and this is normal.
You can prepare a 5% iodine solution or a 10% salicylic acid tincture yourself, or purchase ointments at the pharmacy.
If the cat has long and thick hair, it should be completely shaved off in the affected areas.
How to treat ringworm in a cat impossible without antifungal agentsVeterinarians typically prescribe a drug like griseofulvin, which is added to food. Only a specialist can prescribe the correct dosage, as incorrect dosage can often result in death for pets.
It is imperative to take immunomodulators that boost your pet's immunity.
For both prevention and treatment, veterinarians prescribe special vaccines: Vakderm, Polivak, Microderm, and Mentavak.
Sometimes it may take several months for ringworm to completely heal.
Lesions on the animal's body may be observed even after recovery, and this is nothing to worry about.
To understand when the cat has become completely healthy, it is necessary to undergo a repeat test.
Preventing ringworm in cats
To prevent your pet from becoming re-infected with ringworm, it is necessary observe the following rules:
keep the house clean;- constantly treat the place where the animal lives with disinfectants;
- Before bringing a new pet into the house, it needs to be examined;
- vaccinate your cat regularly;
- avoid contact with stray animals;
- Ensure that the cat is kept in the correct conditions, namely, its nutrition.
keep the house clean;It is worth saying that A cat can infect a person with ringworm.In this case, red or pink spots develop on the body that are intensely itchy. They can also be cured within a few months.
All this suggests that ringworm is an unpleasant disease that is dangerous not only for pets but also for adults. If you notice partial hair loss in your pet's coat, you should immediately seek veterinary attention.
