DERMATOPHYTOSIS (RINGWORM)

Ringworm is a fungus not actually a worm. The fungus can infect cats, dogs, and HUMANS. Treatment can be frustrating due to the often slow disappearance of the ringworm lesions and clinical signs. If you (or a pet) have ever had Ringworm, you know what I mean.

TREATMENT:

1.Topical therapy:
This consists of creams, dips or sprays applied directly to the affected area. Treatment should be continued for one week after signs disappear.

2.Oral therapy
With widespread distribution of spots, or in a case of ringworm that is nonresponsive to topical medication, oral medication is often prescribed. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO GIVE THIS MEDICATION EVERY DAY AND WITH A HIGH FAT MEAL (such as tuna in oil).

3.Adjunctive therapy
A. Medium to longhaired animals should be clipped for more effective treatment.

B. A vaccine is available that may actually hasten the clearance of the clinical signs. Marketed by Fort Dodge® Labs, it is touted as a complete 'cure' for Ringworm, but the results are exceptionally poor. I do not rely upon it as a cure.

C.Vacuum carpeting and furniture at least once weekly. The infected hairs that are shed
can remain infective for ONE YEAR!

D. Cats can carry the ringworm fungus but not show signs of the disease. All cats in the
household should be tested with a fungal culture. If positive, these cats should be treated along with the primary pet.

If I suspect your pet has Ringworm, I will properly prepare an area on the cat's coat with isopropyl alcohol, and then pluck some hairs and place them in a special media for growth of the offending organism. Very often, highly contagious fungi will change the media color within 72 hours. Less infective fungi will take up to a week. All this information helps me to give you a prognosis as far as recovery rates, and success of treatment.

My preference in the treatment of Ringworm is the use of the reasonably inexpensive Griseofulvin®, given daily. There are newer designer drugs which are much more exciting to talk about, but they can be associated with more internal organ damage and are no more effective than the old tried-and-true.

Remember: Ringworm is contagious to you! If your pet has lesions like Ringworm, have it checked out, pronto!