How to Treat Ringworm in a Domestic Cat

Ringworm is caused by a fungus, not a worm. In cats, the infected area may appear gray and scaly, or there may be a raised red, ring-shaped lesion. In either case, the infection is very itchy and can be transmitted to both humans and other household animals. This is why half of the battle against ringworm involves environmental decontamination as well as treatment for the affected cat. The battle is best waged with both an oral antifungal medication and a topical medication that can help prevent the spread of the fungus to the cat's surroundings.

Things You'll Need

  • Prescription oral medication
  • Latex gloves
  • Prescription topical medication
  • Clippers, scissors or tweezers
  • Lime sulfur dip (if prescribed)
  • Isolation room
  • Vacuum or steam cleaner
  • 10 percent bleach solution
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Instructions

  1. Treat the Cat

    • 1

      Give the cat the prescribed pill twice daily with a fatty meal like canned food. Pry the cat's mouth open, drop the pill in towards the back of the throat and hold the cat's mouth closed. Blow lightly on the cat's nose as you massage the throat in a downwards motion, stimulating the cat to swallow.

    • 2

      Remove the hair from the affected area. Use clippers, scissors or tweezers to carefully remove all hair within 1 inch of the affected area. This reduces the likelihood of ringworm spores being transferred to the environment.

    • 3

      Clean the affected area with warm water and dry thoroughly. Apply a small amount of the topical medication and rub in. Wear latex gloves to avoid catching ringworm.

    • 4

      Apply lime-sulfur dip as directed if your veterinarian prescribed it. The dip must be diluted with water according to the package directions and applied with a sponge. It must air dry on the cat and may temporarily stain the fur.

    Treat the Environment

    • 5

      Keep the cat isolated in a room that is easily cleaned (like a bathroom) for the first two weeks of treatment, or until at least four dips have been given.

    • 6

      Decontaminate the house. Thoroughly vacuum or steam clean all carpeting, rugs and drapes, and disinfect hard surfaces with a 10 percent bleach solution. This should be done periodically until the cat is free of ringworm.

    • 7

      Wash the cat's bed and toys daily in hot water with bleach.

    • 8

      Discard anything that cannot be washed or disinfected because it could contain ringworm spores that could reignite an infection even after treatment is finished.