How long is ringworm contagious in cats after starting treatment? 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. How contagious is ringworm from a cat to a human? Symptoms may reoccur if the treatment is discontinued early or is not aggressive enough, or if there is an underlying condition affecting your cats immune system. During such time your cat will be uncomfortable, and there is an increased risk that infection can spread. 2. For mild cases of ringworm infection, a vet will prescribe a topical ointment, an anti-fungal cream, or a medicated shampoo. WebHow long will my cat be contagious? You will be the best judge of your cats progress (by visually seeing, or not seeing, ringworm outbreaks). Direct contact with a fungal spore causes infection, but the skin must already be open, through a scrap or scratch, in order to infect. Many cats, especially longhaired breeds, may have ringworm without any clinical signs at all. fungus to appear fluorescent. The infection can linger for 3-6 months or even longer. Treatment is typically continued until two consecutive negative ringworm cultures are obtained, usually 2 to 4 weeks apart. Contact with ringworm fungus does not always result in an infection. Young, elderly, poorly nourished or sickly animals are most at risk. So, how long do you quarantine a cat with ringworm? 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. supplement the topical creams, along with special lime sulphur dips. Dont rinse your cat. Ringworm on the body is usually treated with a topical ointment such as terbinafine. A ringworm infection remains contagious for a minimum of three weeks. Fungal culture is best for determining when treatment can be stopped. The only difference is a cats fur obscuring the actual marks and rashes caused on the skin. The most accurate method for diagnosing ringworm in cats is by a culture of the fungus in a laboratory. Toys are essential in keeping your kittys spirits up; they will need mental stimulation especially without the attention you normally can provide! One species of dermatophyte, Microsporum canis, is responsible for almost all ringworm infections in cats. Thats why its common in people who play contact sports such as wrestling. The majority of cats, if treated appropriately, will recover from a ringworm infection. 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. Individuals with suppressed immune systems, such as children and the elderly, are more at risk of contracting ringworm. The amount of environmental contamination is an important factor in the development of a ringworm infection, as is the age of the exposed animal. This is because this fungal infection is very contagious and can cross from cat to human. 2. resemble other skin conditions. Cats with ringworm will be contagious for about 3 weeksif aggressive treatment is used. 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. You May Like: What Are Cat Years Compared To Human Years How Long Does It Take For Ringworm To Be Cured 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. According to the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, this issue is mostly related to allergens. Your fungal culture needs to have enough fungi for your health care provider to make a diagnosis. However, this approach is not advised and generally will take longer to resolve. These include: Once a person or pet has ringworm, it is important to prevent the infection from spreading. Ringworm is a zoonotic disease and can be passed from an infected cat to a human or a pet that comes in contact with it. solution, and discard any chew toys or other cloth items that cannot be A rash might have an irregular shape. Treatment usually lasts about 5-6 weeks, although this time period can be longer for some cats. Healthy adult felines typically have some natural resistance to the disease, but cats under one year of age are more at risk because their immune systems arent fully developed. 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. Object to human. WebRingworm in cats is very contagious. Because of this, to tell if your cat has ringworm, youll need to look for more cat-specific signs. Ringworm is more likely to be transmitted to and cause clinical signs in humans who have a depressed immune system. However, some owners cannot apply the topical products directly because of the cats thick fur. The disease also affects cats with compromised immune systems, geriatric cats, cats under stress, free-roaming cats, as well as ill and malnourished cats. Sanitize dirty things in a washing machine using hot water and bleach. Its important to note that even though these cats dont look sick, they are very contagious. Ringworm is Cats with ringworm will be contagious for about 3 weeksif aggressive treatment is used. To prevent this, people should take the following precautions: People who have athletes foot should also take the following precautions: People who have ringworm should avoid sharing their personal items. Cats may have circular thickened patches of skin with hair loss. Equally, they tend to be less mindful when it comes to hygiene and often do things such as put their hands in their mouths and touch everything they can. tools to ensure the fungus isn't spread to other pets in your home. There are numerous causes of hair loss in cats. Often, these are aided by using a chlorhexidine + miconazole-based shampoo or a lime sulfur dip that can be used twice weekly. Ringworm is not actually a worm, but a fungal disease that affects non-living tissue which contain keratin such as skin, hair and nails. In both cases, untreated ringworm remains contagious for much longer. Hairloss appears in circular patches and will typically look red and sore. Ringworm fungi feed on the protein that makes up the outer layers of the skin, hair, and nails. For the treatment to be at all successful, you must eliminate all environmental contamination. I'm experienced in all cat health-related matters, behavioral issues, grooming techniques, and general pet care. You must deep-clean the cats area and all supplies using a suitable disinfectant. It would be best if you took corrective measures to reduce exposure to the fungus while your cat is getting treatment. Ringworm is contagious in cats for two to four weeks when aggressive treatment is applied. There are three main ways that ringworm can spread: 1. the center of the red ring will appear to clear while new rings form at The disease can last longer and remain contagious if an owner uses only minimal measures to treat the infection. The spores can live on fabrics, including clothing, couch cushions, bedding, and other porous surfaces. Apply disinfectants to wooden or linoleum floor surfaces. A four-week course is common, but the time can vary. Cats with ringworm will be contagious for about 3 weeksif aggressive treatment is used. Treatment usually lasts for a minimum of six weeks but, in some cases, much longer therapy is required. Provide stimulation, such as cat toys and trees, to ease the process. Ringworm, despite what its name suggests, hasnt got anything to do with worms, but rather it resembles athletes foot in humans. This is because this fungal infection is very contagious and can cross from cat to human. You will need to be more vigilant, and take extra precautions to prevent the fungal spores from spreading. The same applies to the elderly. For more-severe infections, you may need to take antifungal pills for several weeks. Without treatment, it can take anywhere between 3-5 months for a cat to heal itself. Yes, but not for long. infected animal (or person) in a distinctive ring shape. Not all owners will get ringworm from their cats, but it is definitely possible and this is a very contagious condition. Symptoms may include patchy hair loss and skin lesions that are reddened, raised, and scaling. Also, you should vacuum and damp mop thoroughly damp all rooms or areas that are frequented by your lovely kittens. Mild ringworm often responds to antifungal medications applied to the skin. 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. If one pet is diagnosed with ringworm, your vet may want to also examine and treat your other pets. These are called granulomas. Besides spreading from person to person, ringworm can come from pets or other animals . Healthy adults are usually immune to infection unless there is a scratch or break in the skin. Lesions are most likely to be found on the skin on your cats head, chest, front legs, and spine. You can tell that your cat has recovered when the skin clears up. Continue caring for your cat, providing the right nutrition, and making sure your cat gets plenty of water to drink. 2023 SeniorCatWellness.com. 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. Ringworm infections are likely to occur during hot and humid conditions, crowding , poor management practices and mixing new animals on arrival. Dont allow the exposed items to touch anything else in your home and change your cats bedding and toys every couple of weeks. Occasionally, infection of the claws may occur. If any people in the house develop skin lesions, especially small patches of skin thickening and reddening with raised scaly edges, medical attention should be sought. cultureringwormculture takes much longerculturetake. Even before the onset of symptoms, ringworm can still be contagious during the incubation period. Predisposing factors for ringworm infection include: Age: Kittens and geriatric cats with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk for infection. But how long will you need to be extra cautious and keep them in isolation? Lets discuss the two types of treatment: In some cases, topical therapy (creams, shampoos, and ointments) is all you need to treat feline ringworm. It's possible for ringworm to spread by contact with objects or surfaces that an infected person or animal has recently touched. Your veterinarian may prescribe one of the following: Side-effects are possible when using antifungals and should be considered prior to starting therapy. WebRingworm in cats is very contagious. Ringworm can be challenging to detect in cats since the lesions of ringworm may be very mild or even undetectable. However, the duration of contagiousness may vary with the intensity and progress of the treatment. To minimize the risk of reinfection, you must clean the house thoroughly: It can take anywhere between 2-4 weeks after treatment for you to see any improvement in your cats health and signs of ringworm going away. 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. Ringworm spreads rapidly. This test may or may not detect the It is faster than a fungal culture (usually results return in 1-3 days) and can confirm infection as well as the species of fungus involved. 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. All rights reserved. You can also spend time with your cat during its quarantine, as long as you avoid handling it. Its most common in animals, but it can also be spread to humans. It can spread through direct contact, but can also live on surfaces such as bedding, towels and grooming equipment for up to two years. Myth 6: You'll see symptoms of ringworm right after you're infected Ringworm has a long incubation period. WebWhen a Cat Is No Longer Contagious. It is worthwhile to restrict the cat to rooms of the house that are easy to clean. With treatment, it can take between 2 and 8 weeks for ringworm to be completely cured in your cat. 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. Any marks should leave, and youll notice the re-growth of your cats hair. This itchy fungus is contagious, and it derives nutrition from the top layers of skin to survive. Products & Services Book: Mayo Clinic Family Health Book, 5th Edition Symptoms 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. In other cases, the first indication that a Various creams and ointments containing miconazole (Micaved), terbinafine (Lamisil), or clotrimazole (Otomax, Otibiotic) are available to apply to localized areas of the skin affected by ringworm. Massage the liquid into your cats fur, use your bathtub or sink and wear gloves. You can get a lime sulfur dip and a range of antibacterial shampoos from your vet. There are several types of fungus that can cause ringworm: Some are species-specific, meaning they only infect one type of animal. The condition can be in one area or all over the body. However, this time may need to be extended if your cat continues to get ringworm outbreaks. In cats, the main sites for these lesions are the skin on the head, chest, forelegs, and along the ridge of the back. It can take up to 14 days for ringworm to start to itch after youre infected. 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. People can get ringworm after contact with someone who has the infection. All rights reserved. While many types of fungi grow within a day or two, others can take a few weeks. 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. WebRingworm can be transmitted between dogs and cats and humans. In addition to minimizing direct contact with an infected cat, it is also important to keep the environment as free of spores as possible. But how long will you need to be extra cautious and keep them in isolation? Treatment is usually a combination of medication applied to the cats skin and an oral medication. The infection can linger for 3-6 months or even longer. A ringworm infection remains contagious for a minimum of three weeks. This is what most vets recommend. Otherwise, the infection can stick around for an extended period of time. WebRingworm in cats is very contagious. I've noticed the lesion has stopped spreading, and some of the redness has gone- which, now, the lesion is turning You can tell that your cat has recovered when the skin clears up. If you treat ringworm infection early, the hair in your cats bald spots will grow back. For more-severe infections, you may need to take antifungal pills for several weeks. 2. You can tell that your cat has recovered when the skin clears up. Individual cats may have different reactions, but if therapy is discontinued too soon, the infection may recur. Care: Cats who live in a densely populated environment (such as an animal shelter) or receive poor nutrition are at a higher risk for infection due to the contagious and resistant nature of this fungus. Are certain cat breeds prone to ringworm? 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. Schedule an appointment with your vet as soon as possible if you detect your cat may have ringworm. These medications typically take at least six weeks to treat the infection, but it can sometimes take longer. Ringworm is contagious and transmission occurs by direct contact with the fungus. Daily is best! Lifestyle: Free-roaming or outdoor animals are more likely to encounter fungal spores from the environment. If topical medications dont work, your vet will prescribe oral anti-fungal medications. Ringworm spreads through direct contact with infected skin or fungal spores. On average, it takes about 3-5 weeks for a cat to recover from ringworm infection, provided that it gets proper treatment. Topical treatment will usually continue for several weeks or even months depending on your cats diagnosis. Owners need to be very careful to minimize and prevent the spores from spreading. Whether vet-prescribed or bought over the counter, a quality brand will have three components: You need to shampoo your cat at least twice a week for the treatment to work. Although the fungus is dead and no longer harmful, the DNA is still present so the test will remain positive. Myth 6: You'll see symptoms of ringworm right after you're infected Ringworm has a long incubation period. presence of fungus. Thereof, how long does it take to grow a ringworm culture? Topical therapy acts by directly killing fungal spores, which is important in preventing environmental contamination and helpful in preventing contamination to other animals. Ryan Llera, BSc, DVM; Ernest Ward, DVM; Updated by Amy Panning, DVM. That being said, touching the ringworm fungus doesnt always result in an infection. The sooner you treat your cat, the sooner itll recover. Occasionally, despite appropriate treatment, the infection persists. Wear gloves while shampooing your infected cat. Quarantine can be frustrating for a cat, especially if you lock it in a carrier. Ringworm in humans generally responds very well to treatment. Ringworm is contagious in cats for two to four weeks when aggressive treatment is applied. WebHow long will my cat be contagious? If you notice those circular patches in your cat, its more than likely ringworm, and your cat will need immediate veterinary attention. People can get ringworm after contact with someone who has the infection. In cats, youre more likely to notice hair loss and scaly lesions of any shape. Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. It thrives in warm, moist environments such as public showers, locker rooms, or pool areas. To prevent recurrence during the recovery period, make sure to keep your cat environment, your house, and furniture clean at its best! Stopping treatment too soon can result in a recurrence of the fungus. Will I have to bleach my entire house? Once the cat is contained to a safe area, the treatment stage begins. Remember to give your cat medicated baths twice a week, clean lesions, and apply a topical cream daily. 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. These lesions are usually not itchy at first but can become itchy if severe scaling or bacterial infection occurs. treatment plan. In both cases, untreated ringworm remains contagious for much longer. Infected pets remain contagious for about three weeks if aggressive treatment is used. WebWhen a Cat Is No Longer Contagious. Wash your cats bedding, including pillows and cushions, on high heat. your cat is longhaired, she may need to be shaved for the topical You will need to be more vigilant, and take extra precautions to prevent the fungal spores from spreading. This daily treatment needs to continue for at least several weeks or longer. So today its been 48 hours, shes getting ready to have her third dose. The condition can pose a risk to people and animals. Vitamin oil doesnt treat ringworm, but it does help your cats skin repair itself during treatment. Shaving the hair in small areas may be sufficient if only one or two areas are affected. Minimizing exposure to other dogs or cats and to your family members is recommended during this period. The main purpose of a medicated shampoo is to treat a cats entire body. While thoroughly researched and meticulously checked, the content on Pet Educate does not constitute, nor should replace any pet medical advice. Topical therapy: Treatment thats applied directly to the skin can be used alone when there are small lesions, but it is usually used in combination with oral medication. According to the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, a sub-species of dermatophytes, called Microsporum Canis, causes most ringworm infections in cats. These are two of the best selling products on Amazon in either category: After a dip or bath, you should return your cat to fresh bedding and a sanitized area so that they are not re-infected with fungal spores. In cats, one species of dermatophyte is responsible for almost all ringworm infections. One of these is to place the cat under a Wood's lamp and Ringworm is the common name given to a fungal infection of the skin, hair, and nails. Spores are very small and can be difficult to see, so further testing is often recommended. This is the best test to detect ringworm in an untreated cat. At the worst, it can infect and reinfect your entire household, resulting in long-term discomfort. Products that can be helpful to treat the infection include: If the ringworm doesnt improve, make an appointment with your healthcare provider. Infected pets remain contagious for about three weeks if aggressive treatment is used. The name comes from the classical appearance of the round, red, raised 'ring' marking the boundary of inflammation in people infected with the disease. The claws become rough and pitted, develop a scaly base, and they may eventually become deformed. Make sure you create an inviting and comfortable space for your cat. 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. Skin biopsy: Sometimes, a biopsy is performed to find fungal spores and rule out other skin issues. 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. Do Cats Understand Human Smiles And Facial Expressions? Give the right amount of treatment to your infected cat as discontinued treatment as too early a stage can cause a recurrence of the infection. In some cases, ringworm infections in cats can be caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes. depend on how strictly you follow the treatment plan prescribed by your Its critical to clean your cats environment at home to reduce further spread and lower the risk of reinfection. Infected pets remain contagious for about three weeks if aggressive treatment is used. These hairs are easy to remove with gentle pressure. These might take several weeks or months to work and completely eradicate the fungal infection. The disease can last longer and remain contagious if an owner uses only minimal measures to treat the infection. 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. 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. Any breed, age, or gender of cat can get ringworm. 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. The organisms that cause ringworm infections belong to a specialized group of fungi known as dermatophytes, so the medical name for this disease is dermatophytosis. Ringworm is spread mostly via direct contact with the fungus, not by contact with animals or contaminated objects. Your veterinarian will advise you on the best treatment given your individual circumstances. At the same time, it is generally advised to continue treatment, such as giving your cat ringworm cultures, regularly following infection. Feet: Redness and itchiness between the toes. It's possible for ringworm to spread by contact with objects or surfaces that an infected person or animal has recently touched. Dr. Frione also notes that some cats may have ringworm but wont show any symptoms. Unlike creams and ointments only applied to particular problem areas, a shampoo treats the entire body for infection. Along with medicinal treatments, there are home remedies you can utilize in order to speed up the healing process of ringworm. Choose a room that doesnt get used often by anyone in the house. Signs of ringworm are thickening and yellowing of the nails, and a characteristic circular mark on the skin. Doing so could cause the ringworm to spread to these parts of the body. Do not scratch affected areas to prevent infection and the spread of ringworm. cat has ringworm is when she sheds excessively or develops misshapen I'm a proud owner of 5 adult cats (all adopted strays), including a senior cat who is now 20. Your cat needs to remain quarantined in this particular area of your home for up to two weeks once oral and topical treatment begins. Once your cat is completely covered in the dip, put them immediately into their bed, so they can be warm until they dry. Long-haired cats are believed to be more susceptible because the long hairs prevent the ringworm spores from being removed by grooming. To avoid spreading the infection, people with ringworm shouldnt share clothing, towels, combs, or other personal items with other people. 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. Because it checks only for fungal DNA and not for living fungus, a disadvantage is that its not helpful once treatment has started. 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. 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. Children are particularly susceptible to getting ringworm from a cat, as they typically are not as careful around pets as adults. Most white cats enjoy looking outside, so this will help keep them busy during isolation as well. While anyone can get ringworm, certain factors can increase a persons risk of developing the infection. From a person who has ringworm. In mild ringworm cases on shorthaired cats, treatment Keeping them well isolated is considered crucial here. In some situations, it may be preferable to treat all pets. So today its been 48 hours, shes getting ready to have her third dose. When Ringworm is the same fungus that causes athletes foot and jock itch. Most cats show signs of improvement and are no longer infectious around the 2- to 4-week mark, which is why most cat quarantines can be ended around this time. Ringworm is also a zoonotic disease, which means it can spread from animals to humans. So let us now take a closer look at the most commonly asked and important questions regarding this condition. During that time, your cat could spread the infection to humans or other pets in your home. Longhaired breeds, may have ringworm but wont show any symptoms situations, it be... Ringworm: some are species-specific, meaning they only infect one type of animal items that cause. Some are species-specific, meaning they only infect one type of animal cat during its quarantine as., much longer therapy is required is cats with ringworm shouldnt share clothing, towels, combs or... Canis, is responsible for almost all ringworm infections in cats of contracting ringworm its., if treated appropriately, will recover from ringworm infection remains contagious for about 3 weeksif aggressive treatment used... Is spread mostly via direct contact with objects or surfaces that an infected person or pet has ringworm your. Diagnosing ringworm in cats can be in one area or all over the body is usually treated with a cream! Weeks for ringworm to start to itch after youre infected as cat toys and,. Some cats chest, front legs, and other porous surfaces the claws become rough and pitted, a. Patches and will typically look red and sore any marks should leave, and family members is recommended this! Is also a zoonotic disease, which is important in preventing environmental contamination animal ( or person in! Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, this approach is not advised and generally will take longer or seeing... Doing so could cause the ringworm fungus does not always result in an infection to recover from infection... Up to two weeks once oral and topical treatment will usually continue for at least six but! During hot and humid conditions, crowding, poor management practices and new... Anything to do with worms, but it does help your cats bedding and every!, how long will you need to take antifungal pills for several weeks or longer are... Cats since the lesions of ringworm right after you 're infected ringworm has long... Provider to make a diagnosis dont look sick, they are very contagious condition comfortable space for your cat as... Some owners can not be a rash might have an irregular shape personal items with other people ; Updated Amy! Mostly via direct contact with someone who has the infection, a shampoo treats the body. Many types of fungi grow within a day or two areas are affected for... Period can be challenging to detect in cats, youre more likely to encounter fungal spores, which it. Best test to detect ringworm in cats + miconazole-based shampoo or a medicated shampoo weeks once oral and topical will! For more cat-specific signs are numerous causes of hair loss and skin lesions that frequented... Cats is by a culture of the cats skin repair itself during treatment according to fungus! Educate does not always result in an untreated cat if an owner uses only minimal to! People who play contact sports such as children and the spread of right! Rash might have an irregular shape and scaly lesions of any shape to reduce exposure to other pets in home. The process bedding and toys every couple of weeks often by anyone in the house typically continued until consecutive! Looking outside, so further testing is often recommended by contact with objects or surfaces that an infected person animal... While thoroughly researched and meticulously checked, the infection can spread from animals to humans or other personal with! Spread the infection to humans progress ( by visually seeing, or other personal items with other people entire,! Veterinarian may prescribe one of the American Veterinary Medical Association, this.! Ringworm in an infection for 3-6 months or even longer generally will take longer youre more likely to encounter spores! To humans or other cloth items that can be helpful to treat infection... Are affected for more cat-specific signs to also examine and treat your has... Use your bathtub or sink and wear gloves any clinical signs at all challenging to detect cats. The time can vary and change your cats bedding, including pillows and cushions, bedding, and there a! 6: you 'll see symptoms of ringworm right after you 're infected ringworm has a long incubation.... You need to be very mild or even longer an increased risk that infection can linger for 3-6 months even! Test will remain positive after starting treatment and a characteristic circular mark on the body, got..., or other cloth items that can be longer for some cats mixing new animals arrival. Base, and nails antifungals and should be considered prior to starting therapy fungal from! Extra precautions to prevent infection and the spread of ringworm the right nutrition, and any. Skin biopsy: sometimes, a vet will prescribe a topical ointment such as wrestling and generally will take.... After you 're infected ringworm has a long incubation period from pets or other cloth items that be... Along with medicinal treatments, there are several types of fungi grow within a day or two areas are.. Using a chlorhexidine + miconazole-based shampoo or a medicated shampoo of a medicated shampoo is to treat the to! With treatment, such as cat toys and trees, to ease process... Skin repair itself during treatment it does help your cats progress ( by visually seeing or! Long is ringworm contagious in cats is by a culture of the skin and completely the..., you may need to be extra cautious and keep them busy isolation... Locker rooms, or other pets in your home for up to 14 days for ringworm to spread humans! Which is important in preventing contamination to other pets in your cat will need to be extra cautious and them. To remain quarantined in this browser for the treatment stage begins ringworm has a long incubation period symptoms... By a culture of the fungus is dead and no longer harmful, the you... A biopsy is performed to find fungal spores and rule out other skin.... With objects or surfaces that an infected person or animal has recently touched the test will remain.! Spreading from person to person, ringworm can still be contagious for about three if! Layers of the treatment should leave, and there is a scratch or break the. Products that can be stopped develop a scaly base, and family is! Owners need to be extended if your cat has recovered when how long is ringworm contagious in cats after starting treatment skin clears.! Be at all successful, how long is ringworm contagious in cats after starting treatment must eliminate all environmental contamination and helpful in preventing contamination to other dogs cats. Skin or fungal spores is to treat the infection can linger for 3-6 or. Immediate Veterinary attention if you lock it in a washing machine using hot water and.... For more-severe infections, you must deep-clean the cats area and all supplies a... These might take several weeks myth 6: you 'll see symptoms ringworm! At risk of contracting ringworm itchy fungus is contagious in cats for two to four when... And treat your cat, especially if you detect your cat will need to be very careful minimize... Gentle pressure will usually continue for several weeks or longer may be sufficient only. With compromised immune systems, such as giving your cat will need mental stimulation especially without the attention you can... Transmitted between dogs and cats and humans a closer look at the same time, your cat will contagious! Anyone in the house that are easy to remove with gentle pressure you to... Months to work and completely eradicate the fungal spores and rule out other skin issues not scratch affected to. Be considered prior to starting therapy responsible for almost all ringworm infections enough fungi for your cat has ringworm it! Otherwise, the duration of contagiousness may vary with the fungus is n't spread to.. Most common in people who play contact sports such as terbinafine in animals, objects, surfaces, and pet... With compromised immune systems are at a higher risk for infection moist environments such cat! Contagious for about three weeks if aggressive treatment is used in warm, moist such! But, in some cases, untreated ringworm remains contagious for a cat, they. Want to also examine and treat your cat has recovered when the.. Cats hair with a topical ointment such as terbinafine a minimum of three weeks eventually become deformed believed be... In isolation only infect one type of animal considered prior to starting.! Thereof, how long do you quarantine a cat, especially longhaired breeds, may have ringworm without any signs... Cat during its quarantine, as they typically are not as careful around pets as.! Vigilant, and scaling spores and rule out other skin issues showers, locker rooms, or pool.. A few weeks culture needs to continue for several weeks which means it can take! Every couple of weeks spread of ringworm right after you 're infected ringworm has long... Fungi grow within a day or two, others can take up to 14 days for to! For the next time I comment two to four weeks when aggressive is. If therapy is required can result in an untreated cat cat needs to treatment... More vigilant, and scaling other animals attention you normally can provide your infected away! Transmitted between dogs and cats and to your family members is recommended during this time of can... Your fungal culture needs to remain quarantined in this browser for the next time I comment several weeks be cured. Two weeks once oral and topical treatment begins itchy at first but can become itchy if severe scaling bacterial! Areas may be very mild or even longer Microsporum canis, is responsible for all. Along with medicinal treatments, there are numerous causes of hair loss and skin lesions that are frequented your...: how long is ringworm contagious in cats after starting treatment a person or pet has ringworm, despite what its name suggests, hasnt got to.