What should you know about cat has ringworm?

Ringworm is a fungal infection affecting the outer skin and hair. A cat may have round or irregular patches with broken hairs, flakes, redness, or crusts, but signs can be subtle. A [Skin Rash](/symptoms/skin-rash/) or [Scaly Skin](/symptoms/skin-scaling/) is not enough to confirm the infection because allergies and parasites can look similar. A veterinarian may inspect the coat and collect hair or skin samples before choosing treatment. The fungus can spread through direct contact and through hairs or objects carrying spores.

Keep the cat’s bedding, brushes, and carrier separate from those of other animals. Wash hands after handling the cat, vacuum shed hairs, and clean surfaces according to veterinary advice. Avoid putting steroid creams or household disinfectants on the skin. Depending on the findings, the plan may include [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/) or [Oral Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-antifungal-therapy/). Complete the course and attend follow-up even when the coat begins to look better.

Contact a veterinarian promptly if lesions are enlarging, the cat is scratching until the skin breaks, or there is swelling, pus, pain, or a strong odor. Seek urgent help for marked weakness, breathing difficulty, or refusal to eat. Anyone who develops an itchy or scaly patch after contact should seek medical advice and disclose the possible exposure.

Ask how the infection will be tested, whether every pet in the home needs checking, which surfaces require cleaning, and how long contact precautions should continue. Confirm how to give medicine safely and when reassessment is needed.