How to Keep Cats From Getting Ringworm

Dermatophytosis, commonly known as ringworm, causes a circular hair loss pattern with crusty skin. In cats, the fungal infection usually occurs around the face and ears and is more frequently found in kittens. Ringworm is highly contagious and common. Cats become infected with ringworm from having direct contact with the fungi spores. These spores can be found anywhere another cat has been. Limiting your cat's exposure to the spores reduces its risk of getting ringworm.

Things You'll Need

  • Veterinarian
  • Quarantine room
  • Clean grooming supplies
  • Clean boarding facility
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Instructions

    • 1

      Keep your cats indoors. This limits your cat's exposure to neighborhood pets or feral cats infected with ringworm.

    • 2

      Quarantine new cats in a separate room before introducing them to your current cats. New cats need to be examined by a veterinarian to determine if they have ringworm. Until they have been cleared by a vet, do not allow them contact with your already established house cats.

    • 3

      Do not share brushes or other grooming tools with unfamiliar cats. The ringworm spores can live on cat grooming tools and infect other cats.

    • 4

      Check that your cat boarding facility disinfects its cat kennels between cat guests. Disinfection prevents the spread of ringworm.

    • 5

      Wash your hands after touching an unknown cat or a friend's cat and before touching your own. You can transmit the spores from one cat to another.