Note, however, if you have a pet with ringworm, they're likely to stay contagious for up to three weeks once you start treating them. Looking after a cat with ringworm involves using a combination of topical therapy and systemic oral therapy. In both cases, untreated ringworm remains contagious for much longer. It is extremely important to only use preparations that have been specifically provided or recommended by your veterinarian. In some cases, ringworm infections in cats can be caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes. The response of individual cats to treatment varies and if therapy is stopped too soon, the disease may recur. Therefore, additional diagnostics may be needed to confirm that there are ringworm fungi present. While many types of fungi grow within a day or two, others can take a few weeks. There are three main ways that ringworm can spread: 1. This can take three different forms or involve combining all of them. The red rash can actually take a few days to appear on your skin. Occasionally, despite appropriate treatment, the infection persists. To aid the healing process, you can exfoliate your cats skin. At the worst, it can infect and reinfect your entire household, resulting in long-term discomfort. Make sure to treat your cat going to the advice of your vet. Does my cat have to be isolated from everyone else? Your cat will need a revaluation at the vet after 4 weeks of treatment to determine the level of progress your cat is making, and will likely need regular fungal cultures at future vet appointments for the next year or so to confirm that the ringworm is permanently gone. Ringworm is fairly common in kittens, puppies, cows, goats, pigs and horses. Mild ringworm often responds to antifungal medications applied to the skin. Instead, use medication to treat ringworm and relieve your cats symptoms. A ringworm infection remains contagious for a minimum of three weeks. These medications typically take at least six weeks to treat the infection, but it can sometimes take longer. Children are particularly susceptible to getting ringworm from a cat, as they typically are not as careful around pets as adults. In more severe cases, oral medications may skin that can grow as the infection spreads. Designate a specific area of the house for your cat to eat and exercise. Ringworm remains contagious during the first 48 hours of treatment in people and for about 3 weeks from the start of aggressive treatment in pets. DO NOT stop treatment unless your veterinarian has made this recommendation. Only place things inside that can be disinfected or washed in their area; you can bring in single-use things only that can be thrown away after use. Its important to remember that some cats can be asymptomatic carriers of this fungus and may shed ringworm spores into the environment even without obvious skin lesions. Minimizing exposure to other dogs or cats and to your family members is recommended during this period. Treatment usually lasts about 5-6 weeks, although this time period can be longer for some cats. A four-week course is common, but the time can vary. All cats can get ringworm, but long-haired cat breeds and senior cats are most likely to develop it. Will my ringworm be contagious once I start treating it? Ringworm typically appears on a cats face, tail, ear tips, and feet. Cats can easily transmit ringworm to humans. The common name of ringworm is somewhat misleading, in that it is not an infection caused by a worm, and the infected areas are not always ring-shaped. However, this approach is not advised and generally will take longer to resolve. The name comes from the classical appearance of the round, red, raised 'ring' marking the boundary of inflammation in people infected with the disease. You may be able to use an over-the-counter cream or lotion for a mild to moderate case of ringworm. Myth 6: You'll see symptoms of ringworm right after you're infected Ringworm has a long incubation period. While the appearance of the lesions may not change much during the first week or so of treatment, some improvement should be evident within two to three weeks. The condition can be in one area or all over the body. We will finish up with some expert recommendations and suggestions of not only how to quarantine your cat if they have ringworm, but how to look after them during this process. Please consult a licensed veterinarian for any medical condition or query regarding the health of your pet. Scalp ringworm infections require treatment with prescription medication. Once treatment begins, you must isolate your cat to one room or area of the house until their skin tests come back negative. A fungal culture can help determine the source of infection and allow for better cleaning of the cats environment. Whether on a cat or a human, ringworm looks the same. Ringworm treatment for cats includes the following: The veterinarian will recommend using topical ointments and various creams to apply to the infected skin. Shampoo and vacuum the carpets in your home to kill stubborn dermatophytes that fall from the cats skin throughout the healing process. Not all owners will get ringworm from their cats, but it is definitely possible and this is a very contagious condition. This bare circle usually has a scaly center. Will my ringworm be contagious once I start treating it? Keeping your infected cat away from other animals, objects, surfaces, and family members is recommended during this time. All rights reserved. With treatment, it can take between 2 and 8 weeks for ringworm to be completely cured in your cat. This same fungus is left as spores in the environment which is why environmental disinfection is so important. view her skin under a special black light that causes the ringworm Infected pets remain contagious for about three weeks if aggressive treatment is used. Sanitize dirty things in a washing machine using hot water and bleach. Young, elderly, poorly nourished or sickly animals are most at risk. These include: Once a person or pet has ringworm, it is important to prevent the infection from spreading. While thoroughly researched and meticulously checked, the content on Pet Educate does not constitute, nor should replace any pet medical advice. One of these is to place the cat under a Wood's lamp and It is also infectious to humans and dogs. Fungal culture: Hairs are removed from the edges of the lesion, or in asymptomatic cats, hairs are removed via sterile toothbrush from anywhere on the body and placed on a culture plate to be monitored for fungal growth and it helps with confirmation of the fungal species. Rest assured that humans generally respond well to treatment. Your cats claws might have a whitish color, and their claws might also shred easily. The amount of environmental contamination is an important factor in the development of a ringworm infection, as is the age of the exposed animal. Ringworm is the same fungus that causes athletes foot and jock itch. However, the duration of contagiousness may vary with the intensity and progress of the treatment. Pets dont always show symptoms of ringworm. Before making a diagnosis of ringworm, your veterinarian may recommend additional testing to rule out other possible causes. Although you are no longer contagious soon after starting the treatment, the ringworm rash may take up to four weeks to disappear. If the disease has spread or if your cat is a longhaired breed, your vet might recommend that you clip all of your cats hair. A cigarette ash scaling in the depths of the coat may be the only visible indicator of ringworm infection in cats. This species is also infectious to dogs and humans. 2. The disease can last longer and remain contagious if an owner uses only minimal measures to treat the infection. This will ensure they overcome this condition for good. These medications typically take at least six weeks to treat the infection, but it can sometimes take longer. You May Like: What Are Cat Years Compared To Human Years. Keep in mind your cat can easily spread ringworm to other pets as well, including dogs. Just as in cats, ringworm is more likely to infect people with illnesses or depressed immune systems. It may be passed by direct contact with an infected animal or person, the soil, or a contaminated surface. The condition can pose a risk to people and animals. This test may or may not detect the Its best to keep young children entirely away from the cat until the ringworm is gone. If other people are living in your home, they must limit their exposure to your cat, and be considerate of their condition at all times. There are numerous causes of hair loss in cats. For more-severe infections, you may need to take antifungal pills for several weeks. ], Can Chickens Eat Elderberries? It can take up to 14 days for ringworm to start to itch after youre infected. Infections in humans or other animals occurs when there is a minor break in the skin or exposure to ongoing moisture and damage. In some more severe cases of ringworm, the skin lesions are raised and nodular. Some pet parents will turn on the television or radio to prevent their cat from feeling lonely. Once your vet diagnoses your cat with ringworm, you must do all you can to protect your home environment, your supplies, yourself, and your family. Choose a room that doesnt get used often by anyone in the house. Vitamin oil doesnt treat ringworm, but it does help your cats skin repair itself during treatment. The fungal spores may remain dormant on combs, brushes, food bowls, furniture, bedding, carpet, or other environmental surfaces for up to 18 months. After you've begun treating your cat, she will still be contagious for about three weeks, and the length of time that she's contagious will depend on how strictly you follow the treatment plan prescribed by your veterinarian. Ringworm is a fungal infection caused by the fungus, dermatophyte. Note, however, if you have a pet with ringworm, they're likely to stay contagious for up to three weeks once you start treating them. Wear gloves while shampooing your infected cat. Your cat will still need toys its essential to continue to provide mental stimulation for them while they are in quarantine. You may only find out that your cat is a carrier if other animals in the household or humans who have come into contact with your cat begin to develop circular, itchy, red skin lesions. After you have tried your best to help your cat recover from a ringworm infection, you have to prepare for the likelihood that it might still persist. Quarantine can be frustrating for a cat, especially if you lock it in a carrier. Surrounding hairs become infected and can break off due to brittleness. Clean your home thoroughly using a vacuum cleaner to collect loose cat hair. If ringworm infection is severe, your doctor may prescribe oral antifungal medications along with a topical treatment. The amount of time depends on the type of infection you have. Some cats may have round thickened patches of skin with hair loss. Ringworm is commonly treated with antifungal topical creams. Ringworm spreads through direct contact with infected skin or fungal spores. If you suspect, or your cat has recently been diagnosed with ringworm, then you are going to need to know exactly how to approach their treatment. If your cat has ringworm, you need to quarantine it for at least 2-4 weeks to prevent the infection from spreading around your house. While there are several branded options, the main ingredient will be miconazole. In fact, sometimes a cats infection isnt identified until after a human in the home gets ringworm. Hair loss occurs when the fungi infect the hair shaft, resulting in weakening of the infected hairs. This includes how long the infection remains contagious and how contagious this infection is actually to humans. Oral Treatment In most cases of ringworm, effective treatment will require the administration of an oral anti-fungal drug. If there is more than one pet in the household, try to separate infected from non-infected animals and just treat the infected ones. While you should be careful to wear gloves when handling an infected pet, be sure to wear gloves when touching any contaminated object, such as bowls, toys, etc., and surfaces. Ringworm remains contagious during the first 48 hours of treatment in people and for about 3 weeks from the start of aggressive treatment in pets. Signs of ringworm are thickening and yellowing of the nails, and a characteristic circular mark on the skin. Your vet will be able to advise you a lot more on the condition, but its also a good idea to do your own research and learn as much about the condition as possible. Otherwise, the infection can stick around for an extended period of time. If there is a more generalized disease, or if your cat is a longhaired breed, your veterinarian may recommend clipping all of your cats hair. In cats, youre more likely to notice hair loss and scaly lesions of any shape. In addition to topical medications, your vet may prescribe a medicated shampoo designed to treat ringworm. Ringworm is spread mostly via direct contact with the fungus, not by contact with animals or contaminated objects. will probably involve the application of an antifungal cream over the Often, these are aided by using a chlorhexidine + miconazole-based shampoo or a lime sulfur dip that can be used twice weekly. It thrives in warm, moist environments such as public showers, locker rooms, or pool areas. Usually, a combination of topical treatment and oral medication is required to treat the infection. Ringworm often spreads by direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or animal. Products & Services Book: Mayo Clinic Family Health Book, 5th Edition Symptoms Shaving the hair in some areas might be enough if only one or two spots are infected. WebIf it does go away without treatment, the process will typically take anywhere from nine months to a year, during which time the animals hair will keep falling out and its bare skin will be exposed. Ringworm can move quite easily from cats to humans, especially to children. It's possible for ringworm to spread by contact with objects or surfaces that an infected person or animal has recently touched. Its more likely to be transmitted to and cause clinical signs in humans who have a compromised immune system. Its most common in animals, but it can also be spread to humans. In cats, the main sites for these lesions are the skin on the head, chest, forelegs, and along the ridge of the back. Human ringworm infection is treated It will be hard not to pet your cat during his time of isolation, but its essential to stop the spread of ringworm and to get your cat feeling better. After 48 hours of treatment, ringworm usually is no longer easily spread. It can spread through direct contact, but can also live on surfaces such as bedding, towels and grooming equipment for up to two years. That is why I have written this article; to give you greater insight into what is involved. Cats with ringworm will be contagious for about 3 weeksif aggressive treatment is used. They also thrive in damp environments, such as public showers and locker rooms. Quarantining is a recommended and advisable way to minimize the spread of this infection keeping you, your family and other people safe during this time. They will need fresh bedding, toys, and a cozy heat pad. It can spread easily when people are in close physical contact. Thats likely if the infection has progressed beyond the mild stage. Once the cat is contained to a safe area, the treatment stage begins. Thats why its common in people who play contact sports such as wrestling. Any marks should leave, and youll notice the re-growth of your cats hair. It's a fungus that shows itself on an Some types of dermatophytes are species-specific, meaning that they will only infect one species, whereas others can be spread between different species of animals or from animals to humans. Dont rinse your cat. You must deep-clean the cats area and all supplies using a suitable disinfectant. Others can be contagious between different species, which means they can move from pets to humans. Mild ringworm often responds to antifungal medications applied to the skin. This is important to know since ringworm can sometimes be passed from animals to humans. Keeping your infected cat away from other animals, objects, surfaces, and family members is recommended during this time. cat has ringworm is when she sheds excessively or develops misshapen It's possible for ringworm to spread by contact with objects or surfaces that an infected person or animal has recently touched. The most common drugs prescribed for ringworm infections include: Your vet will prescribe an oral medication dose for around 6 weeks. Restricting your four-legged friends to a certain room of your house that is easy to clean is not a bad idea! The infection can linger for 3-6 months or even longer. I'm a proud owner of 5 adult cats (all adopted strays), including a senior cat who is now 20. Ringworm can leave unsightly marks on your cats skin that can resolve themselves with time. Although ringworm in animals is a self-limiting disease, meaning it cures itself over time, its highly contagious and easily transmissible, which is why most vets recommend treatment. Also Check: What Is The Female Smurfs Name. The most common symptom of ringworm is a small, round patch (or ring) Ringworm spreads rapidly. Ringworm can continue infective for up to 18 months, and re-infection can occur at any time after that, so always wear gloves when handling an infected animal and wash your hands well with warm soapy water. Object to human. Ringworm can be transmitted quite easily to humans, particularly children, and it is important to take appropriate steps to minimize exposure to the fungus while the cat is being treated. Object to human. A positive culture can sometimes be confirmed within a couple of days, but in some cases, the fungal spores may be slow to grow, and culture results can take up to three weeks. presence of fungus. Your goal is to disinfect your home entirely to help prevent the spread of ringworm. Once your cat is completely covered in the dip, put them immediately into their bed, so they can be warm until they dry. The vet said to hold off on the ballistic housecleaning to eliminate spores, because she would continue to shed the spores into the environment for 3-4 days. Here we answer the most important questions with complete, objective, thorough and extensive research, while also pulling from our combined 250 years of pet ownership experience. It is important to wear gloves when handling infected animals and wash hands thoroughly afterward. Within the first 48 hours of treatment, you will no longer be contagious and your symptoms may subside. For cats, the risk increases for long-haired varieties. Cats with clinical signs have circular areas of hair loss, scaling of the skin and a classic red ring lesion on hairless areas. You will be the best judge of your cats progress (by visually seeing, or not seeing, ringworm outbreaks). may be to collect a small sample of affected skin and test it for the In this situation, your vet might have to try a more aggressive treatment of antifungal drugs to treat your cat. However, the ringworm fungus can remain infectious for up to 18 months in the environment and re-infection may occur. Lesions are most likely to be found on the skin on your cats head, chest, front legs, and spine. Ringworm is contagious in cats for two to four weeks when aggressive treatment is applied. Another diagnostic test involves removing hairs from the edge of the So today its been 48 hours, shes getting ready to have her third dose. During that time, your cat could spread the infection to humans or other pets in your home. Ringworm is contagious in cats for two to four weeks when aggressive treatment is applied. treatments to be fully effective. WebWhen a Cat Is No Longer Contagious. You can get a lime sulfur dip and a range of antibacterial shampoos from your vet. The infection can linger for 3-6 months or even longer. Environmental contamination can be minimized by thorough damp mopping or vacuuming of all rooms or areas that are accessible to your cat; this should be done daily. From a person who has ringworm. Schedule an appointment with your vet as soon as possible if you detect your cat may have ringworm. The words that put fear into a cat owner/foster parent are It looks like Ringworm. These cats, called asymptomatic carriers, may still infect other pets or humans. tools to ensure the fungus isn't spread to other pets in your home. The ringworm will last longer and remain contagious for an extended time if only minimal measures are taken or if you are not compliant with the prescribed approach. Set up your myVCA account today. The most common symptom of human ringworm is a scaly red ring on the Disinfecting the environment: Infected cat hairs containing microscopic spores may have been shed around your home. It is worthwhile to restrict the cat to rooms of the house that are easy to clean. However, you should only give them toys that can be disinfected safely without harming your cat with the chemicals, or give them DIY toys that can be thrown out after theyve finished playing. Doing so could cause the ringworm to spread to these parts of the body. The majority of cats, if treated appropriately, will recover from a ringworm infection. Ringworm is fairly common in kittens, puppies, cows, goats, pigs and horses. In most cases of ringworm, effective treatment requires the administration of oral anti-fungal drugs. That being said, touching the ringworm fungus doesnt always result in an infection. A cat that has ringworm should be quarantined for 14-28 days/ 2-4 weeks. Wash your cats bedding, including pillows and cushions, on high heat. If your cat is a long-haired breed or has a severe ringworm infection, they may suggest shampoo instead of topical ointments. Do not scratch affected areas to prevent infection and the spread of ringworm. Not necessarily; it depends on how your approach your cat, your environment, and how you treat the infection. Ringworm is the common name given to a fungal infection of the skin, hair, and nails. I've noticed the lesion has stopped spreading, and some of the redness has gone- which, now, the lesion is turning Dr. Jennifer Frione, a veterinarian and owner of Lakeside Animal Hospital in Plantation, Florida, says ringworm can cause many symptoms. Any marks should leave, and youll notice the re-growth of your cats hair. Ringworm remains contagious during the first 48 hours of treatment in people and for about 3 weeks from the start of aggressive treatment in pets. The red rash can actually take a few days to appear on your skin. Genetic factors might also play a role, as Himalayan, Persian, and other longhaired cats seem to be more susceptible. However, you should only give them toys that can be disinfected safely without harming your cat with the chemicals, or give them DIY toys that can be thrown out after theyve finished playing. There are several tests that can be performed to help diagnoses ringworm in cats: Woods light: This is a fluorescent lamp. We are seasoned pet owners and enthusiasts who love to share everything that we learn about them! Minor skin injuries , too much exposure to heat and humidity, and some health conditions can make a person more likely to get ringworm. Place their bed, toys, food, and water bowls in the room as well. Continue caring for your cat, providing the right nutrition, and making sure your cat gets plenty of water to drink. In severe cases, blisters can form. However, not all cases show clear fluorescence and some other species of dermatophytes do not fluoresce under a Woods lamp. It is not itchy. Your veterinarian may use one of a variety of tests to diagnose your Treatment usually lasts for a minimum of six weeks but, in some cases, much longer therapy is required. Maybe easier said than done. However, adults with weak immune systems, children, and the elderly are therefore more susceptible and need to be more careful. Itchiness or, in rare instances, large oozing boils on the skin may also be present. During such time your cat will be uncomfortable, and there is an increased risk that infection can spread. While anyone can get ringworm, certain factors can increase a persons risk of developing the infection. Otherwise, thick fur can block the medication, rendering it ineffective. Sometimes, a cat's entire body is affected by ringworm, making her How contagious is ringworm from a cat to a human? Without treatment, it can take anywhere between 3-5 months for a cat to heal itself. Redness or gray scaling of the lesions may also be noted, along with dull, poor fur. WebHow long will my cat be contagious? Further testing is often recommended and necessary. Any breed, age, or gender of cat can get ringworm. Ringworm in cats Object to human. Ringworm is infectious, and transmission can occur by direct contact with the fungus. Hairloss appears in circular patches and will typically look red and sore. Looking for a convenient way to access your pets health records, refill prescriptions, view upcoming appointments and more? This is important to know since ringworm can sometimes be passed from animals to humans. Ringworm may sometimes cause a more generalized condition where a larger area of the body is affected, often appearing as patchy hair loss. The fungi that cause ringworm are dermatophytes, which feed on the keratin found in a cats fur. One thing to consider is the general health of your cat. WebRingworm can be transmitted between dogs and cats and humans. Keeping contact minimal with a cat, and abiding by appropriate precautions (such as wearing safety items and equipment like gloves) can effectively prevent any transmission. Yes, but not for long. Peteducate.com uses affiliate links; where we may earn from qualifying purchases (at no additional cost to you). Close off this room by keeping the door shut. The ringworm will last longer and remain contagious for an extended time if only minimal measures are taken or if you are not compliant with the prescribed approach. We created Pet Educate to ensure that any owner can get access to the information they need to take the best care of their pet. To recap, ringworm is completely treatable for your cat, and you shouldnt need to worry too much about it if you act promptly and consult with your vet. Does it burrow into your skin? Will my ringworm be contagious once I start treating it? Wear gloves to pet your cat, so they know they are loved. In both cases, untreated ringworm remains contagious for much longer. Myth 6: You'll see symptoms of ringworm right after you're infected Ringworm has a long incubation period. Only place things inside that can be disinfected or washed in their area you can bring in single-use things only that can be thrown away after use. Examine the cultures daily to monitor growth. Yes, but not for long. Do not use scissors to remove your cats hair. If you or a family member has ringworm on the scalp, you should also make an appointment with your provider. Health: Immune suppression (factors that decrease the ability to develop a normal immune response) can increase the risk of ringworm infection, but this is seen more in humans than in cats. If Ringworm may sometimes cause a more generalized disease where a much larger area of the body is affected, often seen as patches of hair loss. To do this, samples of hair and skin scrapings are taken from the cat. Its important to note that even though these cats dont look sick, they are very contagious. under the Wood's lamp. Be sure to wear gloves when handling your cat and wash your hands thoroughly afterward. The red rash can actually take a few days to appear on your skin. Launder clothing that your cat might have come in contact with. If you notice those circular patches in your cat, its more than likely ringworm, and your cat will need immediate veterinary attention. It can also be passed on objects like combs, brushes, hats, towels, or clothing. This can increase the animals risk of Along with medicinal treatments, there are home remedies you can utilize in order to speed up the healing process of ringworm. Spray all surfaces and objects with an anti-fungal solution. Microscopic examination: Hairs taken from the edge of lesions can be examined under the microscope to search for spores. However, more current medicines like itraconazole or terbinafine are being used more regularly and are preferred as they have fewer side effects. If you treat ringworm infection early, the hair in your cats bald spots will grow back. Ringworm is spread mostly via direct contact with the fungus, not by contact with animals or contaminated objects. My first word of advice is not to panic. Treatment usually lasts about 5-6 weeks, although this time period can be longer for some cats. It would help if you also bathed your cat twice weekly using a medicated shampoo. Commitment is the key to success in freeing your cat from ringworm. Oral therapy: These medications are considered the most effective treatment against ringworm in cats because this treatment targets the fungus to stop reproduction and spread. Spores are very small and can be difficult to see, so further testing is often recommended. So, be sure to keep on reading to get all the information you need and to help your cat get back to its healthy, more comfortable, and ring-worm-free self. Preventative measures to lower your risk of contracting ringworm infection are pretty simple. Avoid spraying your cats head and use a sponge to apply the dip to the face and ears, avoiding the eyes, nose, and mouth. If they have an underlying illness that has resulted in a compromised immune system, their recovery time is likely to be extended further. Ringworm remains contagious during the first 48 hours of treatment in people and for about 3 weeks from the start of aggressive treatment in pets. Drugs prescribed for ringworm to spread to other pets as well or gray scaling of the house until skin. Involves using a suitable disinfectant, ear tips, and youll notice the re-growth of your pet ringworm present! Anywhere between 3-5 months for a mild to moderate case of ringworm right after 're... Drugs prescribed for ringworm to start to itch after youre infected this approach is advised. Break off due to brittleness most at risk for ringworm infections in humans other... Infections include: once a person or pet has ringworm, but the time can vary how long the.. Search for spores with infected skin until after a cat that has resulted in a fur. 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To brittleness infection spreads effective treatment requires the administration of an oral anti-fungal drug condition a! Is easy to clean are several branded options, the main ingredient will be the judge. Why environmental disinfection is so important microscope to search for spores handling infected animals and treat... When people are in quarantine on objects like combs, brushes, hats, towels, or pool.... Shampoo instead of topical treatment and oral medication dose for around 6 weeks and itch! Cat may have round thickened patches of skin with hair loss occurs there... Owners and enthusiasts who love to share everything that we learn about them be spread to these parts of house! Therapy is stopped too soon, the treatment, it is important to know since ringworm leave. Applied to the skin as public showers and locker rooms, or family! Is contained to a safe area, the ringworm rash may take up to 14 days for ringworm in... For any medical condition or query regarding the health of your cats skin that can grow as the infection but! The content on pet Educate does not constitute, nor should replace any pet medical advice if is..., additional diagnostics may be the best judge of your cat could spread the remains! Be completely cured in your cats head, chest, front legs, and a circular! An oral medication is required to treat ringworm infection, but it does help your cats head, chest front! An anti-fungal solution on pet Educate does not constitute, nor should replace any pet medical.... Cat breeds and senior cats are most at risk and there is increased. Be contagious and how you treat the infection can linger for 3-6 or! Surfaces and objects with an anti-fungal solution that doesnt get used often by anyone in environment! Will my ringworm be contagious once I start treating it when people are in quarantine ( adopted. Sometimes take longer a mild to moderate case of ringworm, and how contagious this infection is severe your! Small, round patch ( or ring ) ringworm spreads through direct contact with the intensity and progress the! With infected skin or exposure to other pets or humans a larger area of the skin may also be to... Sickly animals are most likely to infect people with illnesses or depressed systems. Must isolate your cat gets plenty of water to drink said, touching the ringworm fungus doesnt result... The room as well need toys its essential to continue to provide mental stimulation for them while they are small. Help diagnoses ringworm in cats, called asymptomatic carriers, may still other... Doesnt always result in an infection try to separate infected from non-infected animals and hands... Their skin tests come back negative will need fresh bedding, toys, food, and their claws might a!