Ringworm in Pets: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Ringworm is commonly misunderstood due to its name, which suggests a worm infestation. Actually, ringworm is a highly contagious skin condition caused by a parasitic fungus affecting dogs, cats, horses, and even humans. As a zoonotic condition, it can easily spread between pets and people, making awareness and prevention crucial for households with animals.

What is ringworm?

Scientifically known as dermatophytosis, ringworm is a fungal infection targeting keratin found in skin, hair, and nails. Fungi flourish on warm, moist skin surfaces where keratin is abundant. This infection is not caused by worms, but by mould-like fungi that create characteristic circular skin lesions, often with a red, scaly outer edge and clearer centre.

How is ringworm transmitted?

Ringworm spreads primarily through direct skin-to-skin contact with infected animals or humans. It can also be transmitted via contaminated bedding, clothing, grooming tools, or surfaces where the spores persist. Good hygiene practices, including fungicidal soaps and thorough washing of affected items, are essential to reducing transmission risk in homes.

How dangerous is ringworm?

Although unpleasant and potentially itchy, ringworm is generally mild and rarely causes serious health issues. It often results in hair loss or skin irritation in the affected areas but does not typically lead to complications if treated promptly. It is important to manage ringworm responsibly to prevent spread within households and community settings.

How can I identify ringworm?

Ringworm usually presents as red, raised patches on the skin with a distinctive ring shape caused by fungal growth at the edges. These patches may be itchy and vary in size from small spots to larger, merging areas. In pets, hair around these lesions may become raised before falling out, showing bald, reddened skin beneath. Occasionally, other skin conditions can mimic ringworm, so veterinary or medical diagnosis may be necessary.

• Red or inflamed circular patches, often itchy.
• Edges of lesions appear darker and raised with possible micro-blisters or scabs.
• Patch centres may appear clearer or less affected.
• Bald patches visible under fur in infected animals.

Treatment of ringworm

Ringworm treatment often involves topical antifungal creams prescribed by a vet or doctor, applied carefully to infected areas. In more severe or widespread cases, oral antifungal medications may be necessary. Preventing re-infection demands diligent hygiene, including washing hands, cleaning bedding, and disinfecting the environment. Affected pets and people in the household should be treated simultaneously to prevent ongoing transmission.

Preventing ringworm spread

While ringworm cannot be fully prevented due to its contagious nature, effective measures can reduce the risk of infection:

• Always wash hands thoroughly after handling unfamiliar animals or their belongings.
• Teach children good hygiene habits, especially handwashing after pet contact.
• Regularly clean and disinfect pet bedding, grooming tools, and household surfaces.
• Isolate and treat infected individuals or animals promptly.
• Seek veterinary or medical advice at early signs of infection.

Responsible pet ownership includes prompt diagnosis and treatment of ringworm, following veterinary guidance to protect your entire household. Understanding this common fungal infection minimises stress and supports a safe, healthy environment for pets and their families.