There are more than a few organisms out there that can be passed from pets to people. One we often forget is the fungi better known as \u201cringworm\u201d. Also referred to as dermatophytosis, ringworm can be spread from animals to people in addition to person-person and animal-animal transmission. On today\u2019s blog we\u2019re going to go over the most important things pet owners should know about ringworm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Even though it\u2019s most widely known as a \u201cworm\u201d, ringworm is actually caused by infection with a fungus.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ringworm in pets is caused by one of two species; Microsporum canis<\/em> or Trichophyton mentagrophytes. <\/em>Both of these are zoonotic which means they can also infect humans.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ringworm may be spread in several ways, but most commonly is by direct contact with an infected animal or infection from contamination in the environment.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ringworm is a major environmental concern, as the fungus can remain viable on fomites (inanimate objects that carry an organism) such as kennels, blankets, toys, etc. for several months.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ringworm is more common in young and immunocompromised animals, particularly those coming from high volume animal situations such as shelters, rescues, etc. These areas are more high risk because animals are housed close together and in confined spaces. This is why ringworm is particularly common in kittens, as young litters are often kept together in the same confined space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Typically pets will experience areas of hair loss with scaling\/crusting. It may or may not also be red at the site. Sometimes lesions are so mild hardly any changes are noticeable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pets with ringworm may or may not be pruritic (itchy).\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n While ringworm can be seen anywhere, the most common locations where lesions are seen include the head\/face and limbs\/feet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n People often get the more classic \u201cring like\u201d lesion on their skin, but it may be as simple as a red circular areas. The lesions are also typically itchy, but do not have to be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ringworm can absolutely be treated, though it takes diligence on everyone’s part.\u00a0Lesions on animals may be treatable with topical therapy alone including antifungal ointments and\/or medicated fungal bathes. These are safe and effective, but can be challenging to do for cats. Oral antifungals may also be used for more severe cases.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n Treatment often needs to be continued for several weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Avoiding exposure all together is unlikely, so good hygiene and environmental management is key in these cases. While this also falls on breeders, rescues, etc., it is important for pet owners and new adopters to be on the lookout for signs of ringworm.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n Healthy adults are at low risk of infection, unless spores have access to an open scratch\/wound. Those at higher risk include the elderly, children, and immunocompromised individuals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you believe you have ringworm, please do not ask your vet for treatment. Contact your doctor at your local GP surgery to schedule a consultation or to get recommendations.\u00a0<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" There are more than a few organisms out there that can be passed from pets to people. One we often forget is the fungi better known as \u201cringworm\u201d. Also referred to as dermatophytosis, ringworm can be spread from animals to people in addition to person-person and animal-animal transmission. On today\u2019s blog we\u2019re going to go … Continue reading The scoop on Ringworm<\/span> How do pets get ringworm?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What does ringworm look like in pets? In people?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Can it be treated?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Can it be prevented?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What should I do if I think I have it?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n