Ringworm
the fungus among us
Etch-a-Sketch, pictured here, has quite a few ringworm lesions
What is ringworm?
Ringworm is the common name for the skin infection caused by a group of fungi; it is not caused by a worm at all. Most often it will cause a circular area of fur-loss that is red and may be slightly raised. Ringworm can also have other characteristics, but these circular, hairless lesions are the most common symptom.
Ringworm is closely related to athlete’s foot in people, and it is contagious to us; the young, old, and immunocompromised are more likely to get it. Ringworm is also contagious to other animals including dogs, other cats, guinea pigs, etc.
What care do kitties with ringworm require?
Treating ringworm in neonates is super simple! All that is required is a spot-treatment using a diluted lime sulfur solution twice a week. Although smelly, this easy treatment is very effective. If your kittens are older than 8 weeks and have received 1 round of FVRCP vaccines, they are eligible to receive their lime dip treatments at the Ringworm Adoption Center (located at the main APA! campus).
What should I do if I suspect my foster kitten has ringworm?
Please contact the nursery through THIS LINK to schedule a ringworm check. We will use a type of blacklight called a Wood's lamp to examine the kitten(s) and determine their ringworm status. If they do have ringworm, we will send you home with a bottle of lime dip and thorough instructions for spot-treating. Here are some tips on how to handle an unexpected ringworm diagnosis.
Want more ringworm information?
Check out the Cat Program resource page on ringworm for more information about setting up your foster space, cleaning, getting kittens with ringworm adopted, and more!
Wanting to foster a ringworm kitten?
Watch this short video covering all the basics of fostering ringworm kittens
Fostering Basics - Ringworm.mp4