Dog and Cat Ringworm. Veterinarian explains symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of ringworm.

*This video is for entertainment and educational purposes only. If your pet is sick, take them to see your local veterinarian for the care they need* (Disclaimer)



Hi Everyone! My name is Dan, and I am a veterinarian.


Today I am talking about ringworm in the cat and dog. Ringworm is very common in the cat and dog. Ringworm will cause a skin lesion in the cat and dog. A pet parent will notice a circular area of fur loss were the ringworm is.



The cat and dog ringworm is a fungus. Ringworm on the dog and cat is not a worm at all. The ringworm fungus grows inside of the hair follicle. As the ringworm grows it kills the hair follicle causing the fur loss or alopecia.



Ringworm can be diagnosed a few different ways, but the best way is to complete a culture. The veterinarian will collect some fur from the edges of the skin lesion caused by the ringworm. The fur will be sent to a lab, and the lab will grow or culture the possible ringworm. Once the ringworm has grown, the lab technician will be able to look at the ringworm under a microscope and diagnose the ringworm! This is really cool, because now the veterinarian can treat your cat or dog with complete confidence based on the culture.



There are a couple different ways to treat of ringworm or fungal infection in dogs or cats. Most veterinarian will start with a topical or medicated shampoo to treat a skin ringworm infection. If the ringworm infection is really bad, an oral medication may be needed too.


Always ask your veterinarian what is the best option for you dog or cat.


Best of luck guys!
-Dr. Dan