Kitten and Cat Ringworm Adoption

Put simply, ringworm it is a skin infection. More technically known as dermatophytosis, it is not caused by worms, but rather by fungi. Dermatophyte fungi can infect many species, including cats, dogs, and humans. The fungi feed on the keratin containing outer layer of skin cells, hair, or nails.

The classical red ring lesions which give ringworm (half) of its name are seen mostly in human infections. Dogs tend to get circular areas of fur loss and the exposed skin might look scaley, crusty or inflamed. Ringworm in cats is more variable- it can present as small scabs scattered over the body; as patches of thinning fur on the ears, face, or paws; or as more typical circular lesions.

Ringworm is spread via fungal spores. The most common dermatophyte fungi in cats and dogs (Microsporum canis) tends to be spread animal-to-animal, either by direct contact or through shared bedding, brushes, housing etc. There are other dermatophyte species that live in the soil and can cause infection opportunistically if an animal comes into contact with the spores.

The short answer is yes. Some of the dermatophyte fungi (including Microsporum canis) are zoonotic- which means they can be transmitted from animals to humans (and vice versa). Human infections are normally self-limiting or readily treatable with anti-fungal creams, unless the person is immunosuppressed. Note there are other dermatophyte fungi that only infect people and are not transmitted from animals. So, it is best to check the fungal species before blaming the pet!

Treatment of ringworm in cats and dogs involves a combination of oral antifungal medications and topical treatment with either lime-sulfur or antifungal washes. Whole-body topical treatment is particularly important as it reduces spore shedding, the amount of time an animal is infective, and speeds recovery. 

To reduce the risk of other animals or people catching ringworm it is important to keep infected animals separated; use PPE (e.g. gloves) when handling them; and clean and disinfect any surfaces or objects that they have been in contact with. Removing pet fur daily (using disposable wipes for surfaces, regular machine washing for materials) and cleaning to remove dirt then disinfecting twice weekly (1:10 bleach solutions have good antifungal activity) will minimise the risks of ringworm spreading.

The bottom line- while ringworm is zoonotic, it should not be life-threatening for either animals or humans. Most cases are readily treatable, have an excellent prognosis for recovery, and rarely recur.

To treat their ringworm, this kitten/ cat will need:

• Once daily oral medication (most often a tablet that can be given orally or in food). 
• Twice weekly bathing in a lime-sulfur solution. This solution is smelly and can stain some surfaces and fabrics if spilt. However, it is more effective than medicated shampoos.

Both these treatments will need to be continued until the ringworm is cleared- typically 5-8 weeks. 

To minimise the risk of other household pets/ people catching ringworm, we recommend:

• Housing the kitten/cat in a single room, ideally with hard surfaces that can be easily cleaned (e.g. bathroom or laundry)
• Wearing gloves and protective clothing when handling the kitten/cat, or changing clothes/ shoes and washing hands after handling the kitten/ cat
• Washing the bedding/ toys at least once weekly (using a long cycle and not overloading the machine), or discarding the bedding/ toys when soiled
• Cleaning the kitten/cat’s room (including bowls and litter trays) twice weekly by removing any fur/debris and then soaking with a dilute bleach solution

Detailed instructions and guidance on both treatment and housing/ handling/ cleaning will be provided upon adoption.

RSPCA ACT will perform a follow-up test 3-weeks after adoption to determine if this kitten/ cat has cleared their infection. It takes 2-3 weeks to get the results of this test, and treatment should be continued until the results are back. If the test is negative, the kitten/cat is confirmed free of ringworm. Treatment can be stopped, and they can be treated the same as any other pet going forward. If the test is positive, then treatment should continue. Testing is repeated every 3 weeks until there is a negative result. Any tests beyond the first at 3-weeks will be the responsibility of the new owner and their regular vet.

House in an isolated area, rather than free reign in the home, typically a laundry or similar that is not carpeted, and easy to clean/disinfect

Set up as normal: food/water bowls, litter tray, bedding, toys.

No immunocompromised family members.

No other pets is ideal, but not a deal breaker.

Willingness to spend plenty of play and socialisation time during the treatment period .