RINGWORM
Over the past few weeks, we have been focusing on cutaneous (skin) ailments to which our pets (usually dogs) fall victim. One would think that cats, which by nature groom themselves constantly, are less likely to succumb to ectoparasites like ticks and mites. When fleas attack felines in great numbers, only veterinary help will reduce the sufferings. Also, let it be clear: cats do contract the fungal agents responsible for this “Ringworm” condition.
Now, if ever there was/ is a misnomer to define a disease, it is “Ringworm”. Simply put, Ringworm is not caused and has nothing to do with worms. Let’s start with that understanding and truism. The scientists like to make their own definitions and dub a Ringworm infection to be “Dermatophytosis”. For our practical purposes, we will continue to use the word “Ringworm”.
Q: What then is “Ringworm”?
A: Ringworm is caused by a fungus – actually by any of three types (genera) of fungi, which collectively are defined as dermatophytes. (“Fungi” or “Funguses” are the plural of “fungus”)
This column serves not only the purpose of pet care, but hopes to be educational as well. So let’s, at least briefly, discuss these living organisms called fungi.
Well, first of all, fungi are plants. But interestingly, they lack chlorophyll. Fungi are genuinely fascinating entities in biology. Mostly, they are parasites which gain sustenance (nourishment) from skin, hair, claws and pretty much any organic matter, not lastly those which are associated with plants, cats, dogs, cattle and humans, etc. I mention cattle because fungal attacks on the skin can reduce the value of the leather. The impact of cattle is less a health consideration, and more economic.
Several names, which we use quite loosely and commonly, are in fact fungal organisms. These include: molds, mildews, rusts, smuts, mushrooms, toadstools (“Jumbie Umbrella”), etc. These fungi are often quite destructive, even poisonous. However, fungi also have beneficial representatives that are used in and as food, and also are greatly valued for the organic fermentation they can produce.
Q: How is the Ringworm transmitted?
A: Those fungal species which infect animals are transmitted primarily by contact with infected individuals and contaminated surroundings, including clothes, furniture, grooming instruments, and spores in the soil.
Q: How does the caregiver know that the pet has Ringworm?
A: Actually, “Ringworm” gets its name from its appearance. It begins with hair loss, and from the center of the infection, there is a circular spread of localized alopecia (fur loss). At the edge of the circumference of the lesion, one can distinctly see the red ring, even in dark-skinned breeds. The fungus grows in circular patches – even to 2 inches or more in diameter, if the caregiver allows the ailment to get out of hand. If there is any doubt, let your vet make the final decision, which is neither difficult nor complicated. At the Clinic, microscopic examination of skin scrapings is relatively reliable.
I should mention in passing that Ringworm is not a very itchy condition (like scabies which we have discussed previously). But scabs and dandruff-like flakes can develop. The infected area, in turn, can become oozing sores.
Also, if the fungus anchors itself in the toenails, and is untreated, the toenails will grow in a twisted manner.
Q: Can the caregiver and other animals contract this disease from the pet?
A: Yes. This infection can move from species to species (dog →human→ cat). Children especially should be kept away from animals with the Ringworm (fungus) infection. Adults can pick up the infection, but seem to be more resistant.
Q: How can the caregiver treat a pet with Ringworm?
A: Please do not use medication and methods which are proposed by unreliable (even if well-meaning) and non-knowledgeable friends and “experts”.
Follow, rather, these suggestions:
1) Clip away the infected hair at the margins of the Ringworm patches.
2) Bathe the area with an anti-fungal shampoo, so as to remove the dead skin.
3) If there are only one or two small patches, one can treat with an anti-fungal solution or cream. One can purchase these types of medication over the counter. But I would advise that you let your vet write an appropriate prescription.
4) Secondary infections (sores) may need antibiotic intervention.
5) For dogs/cats living indoors, the caregiver may wish to:
(i) Change/wash the bedding daily;
(ii) Physically/manually remove the shed hairs and debris daily using disposable dust cloths or washable floor dusters, (reminds one of COVID- cleansing, right?).
6) Do not use bleach on your pets.
