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Cats/About Ring Worms

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Expert: - 9/15/2010


Question
Hello!
I've made research about ring worms and their effects on animals especially domestic cats.
But I've got some questions.
Are there any other ringworm symptoms that cats can show beside dandruff and bald patches? Does ring worm mark has to be circular?
Thank you.


Answer
Hi Heda,

Most cats with ringworm are intensely itchy, so scratching is a common symptom.  The skin typically becomes thick and crusty, as well, and will often ooze in some areas.  

The rash usually begins in round patches, but it does not always have to be circular.  When the fungus becomes widespread, the rash can form any shape.

This can make diagnosing ringworm difficult.  A fur and skin culture should be done any time a cat is suffering skin problems of a questionable nature.  Allergic skin reactions, bacterial and fungal infections, mites and auto-immune disease can all produce similar looking skin irritations, and a culture is the best way to diagnose the fungal infection, ringworm.

Good luck!

Jessica  

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Jessica

Expertise

The areas in which I have gained the most experience are cat health and feral cat management/rescue. I provide supportive care to chronically ill cats, hospice care to terminally ill cats and also am involved in trap-neuter-return efforts. My specialities lie in taming feral cats and in the allopathic treatment of cats with illnesses or special needs. I also have owned Siamese, Himalayans, Abyssinians, Russian Blues, Savannahs, Bengals, Peterbalds, Don Sphynx and Oriental Shorthairs and am well-versed in cat breeds as well as cat behavior and nutrition.

Experience

I have 15 years of extensive experience with cats ranging from breeding to medical care. My daily routine consists of caring for cats with diabetes, thyroid disease, kidney failure, feline leukemia, feline AIDS as well as feral cats. I have experience with liver patients, heart patients, feline infectious peritonitis, cancer, recovery from amputation and trauma, congenital deformities and most every disease in between. I have assisted cats giving birth and hand-nursed kittens who were neglected by their mother from 2 days old through weaning.

Education/Credentials
15 years' hands-on experience

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