Can you get ringworm from pets?
Infected pets can transmit ringworm to people or other pets. There have even been reports of cows, goats, pigs and horses passing ringworm to people! Many studies have shown that children are most likely to get ringworm from a pet, due to a combination of closer contact with their pets and hygiene.
How do you know if your pet has ringworm?
Ringworm Symptoms To Look For In some pets, there will be no physical signs of ringworm present. In most cases, you should be looking for dandruff, red or flaky skin that is raised, itchiness, hot spots, or hair loss. You may also notice redness or sores around the paws or nails.
Is there such thing as ringworm in dogs?
Despite its name, however, ringworm is not actually a worm—it is a fungus. This fungal infection is common all over the world and infects almost all species of domestic animals, including dogs, which is why dog owners should know the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for ringworm. Learn more about worms in dogs.
When to stop treatment for ringworm in dogs?
Treatment often must continue for several months and should not be stopped until followup diagnostic testing shows that the dog is free of ringworm. If an underlying condition (e.g., malnutrition, administration of immunosuppressive drugs, etc.) is thought to be playing a role in the dog’s development of ringworm, it should be addressed as well.
How can you tell if a kitten has ringworm?
The typical ringworm kitten has patchy hair loss and scaly skin, often on the face and ears. Outdoor cats are at greater risk than indoor cats because of their exposure to ringworm in the environment. However, Persian cats have a bizarre weakness when it comes to ringworm and seem especially prone to picking up infection.
Why are Stray Cats at risk for ringworm?
Stray animals, especially puppies and kittens, are at risk because of poor health and bad conditions. The typical ringworm kitten has patchy hair loss and scaly skin, often on the face and ears. Outdoor cats are at greater risk than indoor cats because of their exposure to ringworm in the environment.
How do you get rid of ringworm in dogs?
Get a medicated ointment, cream, or shampoo. Another option is a medicated ointment or cream that you apply to ringworm sores on your dog’s coat. Your vet may also recommend a medicated shampoo that you use to bathe your dog twice a week.
What do animals have ringworm?
Cows, goats, pigs, and horses can also pass ringworm to people. Adult animals, especially long-haired cats, do not always show signs of ringworm infection. Puppies and kittens most often have patches that are hairless, circular, or irregularly shaped areas of scaling, crusting, and redness that may or may not be itchy.
What causes ringworm in dogs?
Causes of Ringworm in Dogs. Dogs most frequently establish ringworm due to the fact that of infections with the fungi Microsporum canis, Microsporum gypseum, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes.
What are the effects of ringworm on dogs?
Ringworm Complications in Dogs. In addition to sores and lesions on the skin, ringworm can cause allergies, anemia, inflammation, and even immune system deficiency.