Ringworm is a common skin infection that can affect both humans and animals. It is caused by a type of fungus called dermatophyte. Pets can get ringworm from contact with an infected animal or person, or by contact with contaminated objects such as bedding, brushes, or grooming tools.

How Do Pets Get Ringworm?

How Is Ringworm Spread?

Ringworm can be spread in a number of ways:

  • Direct contact with an infected animal or person: This is the most common way for pets to get ringworm. If your pet comes into contact with an infected animal or person, the fungus can be transferred to your pet's skin.
  • Contact with contaminated objects: Pets can also get ringworm by coming into contact with contaminated objects such as bedding, brushes, or grooming tools. The fungus can survive on these objects for long periods of time, so it is important to clean and disinfect any objects that may have been contaminated with the fungus.
  • Indirect contact: Pets can also get ringworm by coming into contact with surfaces that have been contaminated with the fungus. For example, if your pet walks on a surface that has been contaminated with the fungus, the fungus can be transferred to your pet's feet. Your pet can then spread the fungus to other parts of its body by scratching or biting itself.

What Are the Symptoms of Ringworm in Pets?

The symptoms of ringworm in pets can vary depending on the type of fungus that is causing the infection. However, some common symptoms of ringworm in pets include:

  • Circular lesions on the skin
  • Redness and inflammation of the skin
  • Itching
  • Hair loss
  • Crusting or scaling of the skin

How Is Ringworm Treated in Pets?

Ringworm in pets is typically treated with antifungal medication. The type of medication that is used will depend on the type of fungus that is causing the infection. Antifungal medication can be given orally or topically (applied to the skin). In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove infected tissue.

How Can I Prevent My Pet from Getting Ringworm?

There are a number of things you can do to help prevent your pet from getting ringworm:

  • Keep your pet away from infected animals and people: This is the most important thing you can do to prevent your pet from getting ringworm. If you know that an animal or person is infected with ringworm, keep your pet away from them.
  • Clean and disinfect your pet's bedding, brushes, and grooming tools regularly: The fungus that causes ringworm can survive on these objects for long periods of time, so it is important to clean and disinfect them regularly. Wash your pet's bedding in hot water and detergent, and disinfect brushes and grooming tools with a bleach solution.
  • Keep your pet's nails trimmed: Long nails can harbor the fungus that causes ringworm. Keep your pet's nails trimmed short to help prevent the fungus from spreading.
  • Use a barrier cream: You can apply a barrier cream to your pet's skin to help protect it from infection. Barrier creams can be purchased from pet stores or online.