Ringworm Symptoms in Animals

Ringworm is a parasitic fungal infection that affects the skin of animals and can be spread to humans as well. Infections with ringworm may cause intense discomfort and unusual behavior changes in animals, especially if the infection is widespread throughout the skin. Consider this information from the Virginia Department of Health about the symptoms of ringworm in animals.

  1. Time Frame

    • Symptoms of ringworm in animals usually occur one to two weeks after they are exposed to the fungus.

    Diagnosis

    • A diagnosis of ringworm in animals is made by a veterinarian who examines the animal by using an ultraviolet lamp. He may take samples of the hair and skin for laboratory evaluation.

    Skin Rash

    • Animals may develop a skin rash in the areas of exposure to ringworm, which may be difficult to see unless your part or shave the hair.

    Scaly Skin

    • Scaly or thickened skin in the area of the skin rash may peel off and look like dandruff in an animal's hair.

    Itching

    • Ringworm may cause intense itchiness in animals, which results in symptoms including frequent scratching and excessive grooming of affected areas.

    Hair Loss

    • Patchy areas of hair loss on an animal is a symptom of ringworm that will resolve after the infection has cleared.

    Thick Nails

    • A ringworm infection around an animal's feet may cause thickening of nails, hooves and claws. It cause them to become brittle, discolored and flaky.