Home Remedies for Ringworm in a Cat

Ringworm (also known as dermatophytosis) is a fungal infection in mammals that causes red, irritated spots on the skin. The name "ringworm" is misleading, as parasitic worms do not cause the infection. According to Prevention Magazine, home remedies will effectively cure a ringworm infection. However, ringworm is highly contagious; whenever possible take your feline to the veterinarian, if you suspect that he is infected.

  1. Apple Cider Vinegar

    • Apple cider vinegar will kill a ringworm fungal infection and relieve the itchiness associated with the cat's affected skin. According to Vet Info, there are two different ways of applying apple cider vinegar. The first is to bathe the cat in a conditioning shampoo to moisturize its skin before rinsing her with a diluted vinegar mixture. The second is to apply a diluted mixture of vinegar directly to the affected patches with an eyedropper. In either case, the vinegar must be diluted with water in a 1:1 mixture. The vinegar treatment should be repeated daily until the infection subsides. To supplement the treatment, a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar added to the cat's water will treat an infection internally.

    Tea Tree Oil

    • According to Delbert G. Carlson D.V.M. and James M. Giffin M.D., authors of "Cat Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook," tea tree oil is a natural fungicide that effectively treats and cures ringworm. Tea tree oil should be applied with a cotton ball to the affected areas twice daily for seven days to treat ringworm. The cat should not be allowed to lick the treated area as the tea tree oil causes negative reactions in felines when ingested. Tea tree oil-based feline shampoo, available from natural veterinary suppliers, will supplement the treatment and relieve itching. Purchase tea tree oils from natural grocers and specialty websites.

    Papaya

    • Raw papaya slices have anti-fungal properties that will cure a ringworm infection in felines. Vet Info states that rubbing the infected area with a raw papaya slice three times daily for seven to 10 days will remedy ringworm infection. Papaya juices soothe the itching of the ringworm patches. According to Carlson and Griffin, adding 1 tablespoon of papaya juice to 1 cup of an infected cat's water will help fight the infection in conjunction with this treatment. Purchase papaya from most local grocers.