Five FAQs About Ringworm in Cats: Causes, Symptoms & Care

Ringworm in cats is a common fungal infection that many confuse with intestinal worms, but it’s an entirely different condition. Despite its name, ringworm isn’t a worm but a contagious skin disease caused by fungi, notably Microsporum canis. This infection is quite common in cats and spreads easily, especially in multi-cat households or areas where cats interact.

While ringworm generally isn’t life-threatening, it can be persistent and tricky to eliminate without proper treatment. Misunderstandings about ringworm often lead to confusion among cat owners. This article provides clear answers to five frequently asked questions about ringworm in cats, helping you to understand, recognise, and manage this condition responsibly.

1. What exactly is ringworm in cats?

Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection affecting the skin, hair, and sometimes claws of cats. The fungi thrive on keratin, a protein found in skin and hair, which makes your cat’s body an ideal host. The infection typically presents as circular or ring-shaped areas of hair loss with a red, scaly border — hence the name "ringworm." These rings expand outward as the infection progresses.

It’s important to know that ringworm fungi produce spores that can survive in the environment for up to two years. This longevity makes ringworm highly transmissible not only between cats but also to humans and other animals, making careful management essential.

2. How do cats catch ringworm?

Ringworm spreads easily through direct contact with an infected cat. However, your cat can also contract it indirectly, by touching contaminated objects such as bedding, grooming items, furniture, or carpets inhabited by fungal spores.

Longhaired cats are at increased risk since spores cling to their fur and are retained longer. Cats in shelters, multi-cat homes, or crowded conditions also face higher exposure risks. Young kittens, older cats, and those with weakened immune systems are generally more susceptible.

3. Can humans catch ringworm from cats?

Yes, ringworm is zoonotic, meaning it can spread from cats to people. Humans can contract it through direct contact with an infected cat or by touching contaminated items. The infection on humans typically appears as itchy, red, circular skin lesions, commonly on exposed body parts.

While ringworm in humans is generally not serious or painful, it does require treatment with topical antifungal medications prescribed by a doctor or pharmacist. Practicing good hygiene, wearing gloves when treating infected cats, and thoroughly cleaning the home helps reduce the risk of transmission.

4. What are the symptoms of ringworm in cats?

Symptoms in cats vary but mostly involve circular patches with hair loss. You may notice raised or flaky skin, redness, crusting, or scabbing within these rings. These lesions can grow larger over time and sometimes join with others if untreated.

Some cats may carry the infection without obvious symptoms yet still spread spores. It’s important to consult your vet if your cat develops any unusual skin changes or hair loss.

5. How is ringworm in cats treated?

Ringworm can sometimes clear up naturally as the cat’s immune system fights the infection, but this can take months and risks passing it to others in the meantime. Vets usually recommend antifungal medications—oral treatments combined with topical creams or medicated shampoos—to speed recovery.

Because spores remain in the environment for long periods, infection control also involves thorough cleaning and disinfecting your home, laundering or discarding contaminated fabrics, and vacuuming to remove loose hairs.

Cats may become re-infected, so maintaining a clean environment and following your vet’s advice is crucial to prevent recurrence. In multi-pet households, treating and screening all cats helps stop the spread.

This practical approach follows the latest UK veterinary guidance to manage ringworm safely and successfully while protecting your pets and family.