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Ringworm

Shadow

My kitten was diagnosed with ringworm about 2 weeks ago. The vet gave me Tresaderm to apply to the ringworm. It seems to be spreading as I have found a couple more spots on her head. Is there anything she can take by mouth and is it normal for it to spread. Thank You. She has a follow up appointment on Monday.

Symptoms: Itching & Scratching

• Experienced Advisor Selena Carnell says:

  February 10th, 2008 at 09:48 AM

  Hi, sorry to hear about your kitten. In healthy shorthaired kittens and cats with small isolated lesions, the ringworm infection will often resolve without treatment in about four months. The goal with these animals is to treat any underlying conditions, provide good nutrition, and prevent the spread to other animals.

  In more severe cases, several different treatments are used. For isolated lesions, the area around the lesion should be thoroughly clipped down close to the skin. Care should be taken when clipping not to irritate the skin, as this may make the infection spread. Also realize that the clipped hair, clippers, and any grooming instruments that come into contact with an infected animal will harbor the spores and must be heat or chemically sterilized before being used on any other animal. The lesions can then be treated topically twice a day with a topical antifungal medication. Topical treatments i have seen used include miconazole cream, Lotrimin cream, or 1% chlorhexidine ointment. Because of the risk of a cat becoming an asymptomatic carrier, a cat should also be shampooed or dipped with an antifungal product. A 0.5% chlorhexidine shampoo, 2% miconazole shampoo, ketoconazole shampoo, lime sulfur dip, or a 2% chlorhexidine solution that is applied every 2 to 4 days have been used effectively. Topical treatment must be continued for 6-10 weeks, or for at least 2 weeks after the lesions have resolved.

  Another treatment is to use oral antifungal agents. Griseofulvin, Ketoconazole, and itraconazole, have been used successfully. These products all have to be given for several months, and because of their potential toxicity, must only be used under close direct veterinary supervision.

  Because the ringworm fungus can survive for such long periods in the environment, it is critical that an effective cleaning plan be used in all infections. The spores are very resistant to most cleaners, however, bleach diluted to 1:10 with water or chlorhexidine will kill most of the organisms. All grooming tools, bedding, and kennels should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.

  I am also hoping that they vet explained that the ringworm is a zoonosis which means you can catch ring work from your Kitten. If you notice any lesions on your self then you must go to your doctor.

  To prevent your self catching it you should ideally wear gloves when handling the kitten, and wash well afterwards.

  I hope that it will all clear up soon for your Kitten.

  Regards

  Selena Carnell VN

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