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Cat Ringworm -- Symptoms of a Contagious Skin Condition

By: Kurt Schmitt. The most common infectious skin disease in cats, cat ringworm is not a worm, but a fungal infection. It is highly contagious and can be spread to all the animals and people in the house.

In otherwise healthy cats, the disease often resolves itself within 6 to 8 weeks. To prevent the spread of the disease and to resolve it more quickly, your veterinarian may prescribe treatment. More difficult cases may take weeks or months even with treatment. Cats with compromised immune systems may take even longer and experience more severe symptoms.

Ringworm is also referred to as dermatophytosis. It's a fungus which feeds on the keratin protein found in nails, skin, and hair.

The disease gets its name from the round ring-like appearance seen on the skin. The classic ringworm symptom presents as patches of hair loss which appear as circular scaly areas with raised edges. These symptoms are fairly easy to spot.

The most common locations for infection are the head, face, ears, tail, and paws. Early symptoms include dry, flaky skin. In addition, you may see bald areas on ears, the legs, and around the eyes.

In severe cases in cats with compromised immune systems, more serious symptoms may develop. If left untreated, crusty lesions that may become red and sore, as well as infected may develop.

Cat ringworm symptoms include broken hair and hair loss, either in irregular or circular patterns throughout the body, although some cats may lose no hair. You may also notice bumpy, scaly, red, or inflamed skin, and deformed claws. The affected areas may or may not itch.

Only your veterinarian can diagnose cat ringworm. If you suspect your cat has this ailment, call your vet's office for guidance.

Article Source: http://www.lifeweightloss.com

Author Kurt Schmitt has created an online resource for cat lovers and writes about the symptoms of cat illnesses including cat ringworm This and other unique content 'cat ringworm' articles are available with free reprint rights.

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