Ringing the changes: What is ringworm?

There are a huge number of things that can make us and our pets unwell. Some of these, like Ringworm, can affect both of us!

What is ringworm?

Oddly, considering its name, Ringworm is NOT actually a worm. It is a form of fungus, known as dermatophytes. These can infect hair and dead skin and multiply.

This causes bald, scaly areas with broken hairs. These can show up as patches or as rings. The rings are particularly common in cats. Any mammal can contract ringworm, including horses, dogs, cats and small furry pets.

Above: Look out for telltale patches of bald skin.

What are the symptoms of Ringworm?

• Bald, scaly areas with broken hairs. These can show up as patches or as rings.


• Normally on the feet, face, ears and tail.


• Generally just on dead skin, hair and nails but redness and inflammation can develop elsewhere too.


• Affected pets may itch and scratch, causing a secondary bacterial infection as a result.

One of the most important things to know about Ringworm is that it is a zoonosis– it can pass from your pets to you (and vice versa!).

Ringworm can spread through any kind of direct contact with an infected pet, as well as through toys, bedding, carpets and other soft furnishings. Not all those who come into contact with ringworm will be infected by it, with most adult pets having a good general level of immunity to it.

Baby animals, elderly pets and those with underlying health problems are most at risk of contracting it. The incubation period for the infection tends to be around 10-12 days. However, ringworm spores can survive for many months in the right environment.

Above: Bedding used by pets with Ringworm needs to be thoroughly washed or thrown away to prevent the spread of  infection.

How is Ringworm diagnosed?

There are a range of ways to diagnose ringworm. Some of the fungal organisms will fluoresce under ultraviolet light, so you may see your vet examine your pet’s skin using a special light.

Alternatively, your vet may suggest sending off a fungal culture to confirm a possible ringworm diagnosis. A fungal culture involves taking a sample from the affected area and incubating it. If a fungal growth occurs, then the diagnosis is confirmed. Diagnosis through this method can take a few weeks.

How is Ringworm treated?

Ringworm CAN clear up on its own. However, because it is infectious it is recommended that you treat it to speed up recovery and prevent the spread of infection.

Above: Small furry pets such a guinea pigs can contract Ringworm too.

Typically, your vet will recommend repeated bathing with a specially-formulated medicated shampoo. Oral medications are also available. Any cat owner who has ever tried to bath a cat will know that it is a challenging experience akin to trying to restrain a small, soaked ball of fury!

The video below is very helpful in providing an overview of the best way to try and bath your cat. We would advise making it a two-person job, with one person restraining and one person washing.

If you are asked to bath a small furry pet, especially one that lives outside, then it is crucial to make sure that they are completely dried afterwards. These little animals are not particularly robust and damp fur can attract flies.

You will be advised to wash or dispose of any bedding, etc that the pet has been in contact with. Typically, we also recommend that all pets in the household are treated, as they can carry Ringworm without showing any signs.

Please remember that a skin problem could be any number of different issues and isn’t necessarily Ringworm. Skin issues can be extremely unpleasant for your pet and also pose a health risk to humans in the household so we would advise you bringing them in to see us if you have concerns.

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