What is Ringworm?

Ringworm is a contagious disease caused by a fungus that leads to skin lesions in animals and humans. Infection occurs through direct contact with an infected animal or contaminated environment. In pets, ringworm typically appears as circular, crusty, hairless lesions with minimal itching. However, any skin lesion could indicate ringworm. Some animals, particularly cats, can be asymptomatic carriers, showing no visible lesions but still contaminating their surroundings.

Diagnosis

To confirm a diagnosis, hair samples from lesions are collected for a PCR test, with results available within 2-3 days. Alternatively, hair samples can be cultured in a specific medium, with results taking 2-3 weeks.

Treatment

Treatment combines topical and systemic care:

Topical Care:

• Antifungal shampoo applied twice weekly for at least 6 weeks.
• Imaverol baths applied twice weekly for at least 6 weeks. The animal should be thoroughly sprayed with a diluted solution, rubbed against the hair grain to ensure optimal penetration, and not rinsed afterward. Pregnant women should not handle this product.

Systemic Treatment:

• Itrafungol, administered orally every other week for at least 6 weeks, is commonly prescribed.
• This medication must be given on an empty stomach and may cause side effects such as loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• Blood tests may be recommended to monitor liver enzymes, as this medication can affect liver function.

Environmental Control

• Vacuum weekly for several weeks to reduce spore contamination. Immediately dispose of vacuum bags.
• Disinfect tolerant surfaces with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water).
• Note that ringworm spores can survive up to 18 months in the environment.

Control Among Other Pets

• All household pets must be tested, even if they show no visible lesions.
• If test results are negative, preventive Imaverol baths are recommended for at least six weeks.
• Positive cases require both topical and oral treatments, even if no symptoms are present.
• If possible, isolate infected pets from those that are healthy.

Follow-up and Recovery

To confirm recovery, 2 to 3 additional fungal cultures are performed at two-week intervals, starting one month after initiating treatment. All results must be negative before discontinuing treatment.

If in Doubt

If you suspect your pet has ringworm, consult a veterinarian promptly. Early management and appropriate treatment effectively limit infection spread and ensure your pet’s well-being.