What is cat ringworm?

Cat ringworm is a skin disease caused by fungal infection; the vast majority are Microsporum canis infections, with occasional cases caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Microsporum gypseum, and other fungi. Ringworm commonly occurs on the cat’s face, ears, limbs, torso, and tail, typically causing localized hair loss or broken hair along with grayish-white scales.

Cat ringworm causes severe localized itching, so the cat will frequently scratch and bite the affected area, causing the fungus to gradually spread to other parts. The lesions spread outward in a round or oval shape, and if a secondary bacterial infection occurs, it will become inflamed, forming moist, red, pustular ringworm.