A Severe Attack of Ringworm

Facts

• Ringworm isn't a real worm, but a fungal infection. The fungus feeds on dead skin and hair cells and thrives in protected, moist areas. These fungi are called dermatophytes, and a case of ringworm is known as dermatophytosis. The spores of the fungus can live for years if untreated and spread quickly into a serious case of ringworm.

Victims

• Ringworm can strike any warm-blooded animal. The most common victims are dogs, cats, farm animals--such as goats, cows and horses--and humans. Ringworm, like many other fungi, is highly contagious through physical contact. It can also be spread through shared bedding, brushes and housing.

Symptoms

• A ringworm spot presents as a spot roughly the size of a dime or quarter. The spot loses its hair and become red, irritated and scabby. A horse's entire coat can become scruffy and look moth eaten if the case is serious. If ringworm spreads, additional spots will begin to develop, and can spread across the animal's entire body. Although the spots won't actually itch, they will be sensitive.

Treatments

• Serious cases of ringworm are treated with the same methods as mild cases. Antifungal washes and ointments are used to clean and maintain the area. Betadine wash and ointment are specially made for fungal problems like ringworm. Areas that are infected with ringworm should be kept clean and dry after treatment.

Considerations

• Areas that have been infected with ringworm will easily become reinfected if they aren't cared for. A previously infected area needs to be kept clean, dry and well ventilated to prevent new flareups of ringworm.
  Ringworm is also highly contagious. Anything that comes into contact with a ringworm-infected area can spread the spores of the fungus and should be burned.