What to do if your kitten has ringworm?

Two types of treatments are usually available for kittens with ringworm: topical medications and oral medications.

First, for topical treatment, the affected area and surrounding hair of the kitten should be shaved off, and the skin scales and crusts cleaned before applying the medication. Topical medications include creams and sprays containing ingredients such as clotrimazole and terbinafine hydrochloride.

Second, oral medications mainly consist of drugs containing griseofulvin and ketoconazole.

Before treating the kitten with topical medications, the affected area and surrounding hair should be shaved off cleanly. Then, clean the skin scales and crusts using hot compresses or other methods. Finally, apply the cream or spray the medication on the kitten.

Some common topical medications for treating ringworm in kittens include bupikon cream, clotrimazole, sulfur, and fungicidal sprays containing terbinafine hydrochloride. The use of drugs should be guided by the severity of the ringworm and the veterinarian's advice.

If the ringworm is on the face or around the mouth, oral medications can be used for treatment to avoid toxicity from the kitten licking the topical sprays. Oral drugs containing griseofulvin and ketoconazole can be chosen. If a pregnant kitten is infected with ringworm, consult a veterinarian before using any medication to avoid birth defects or miscarriage caused by incorrect drug use.

If the kitten's ringworm is severe, additional systemic antifungal medications may be required. Note that during treatment, it is essential to keep the kitten wearing an Elizabethan collar to prevent them from licking and spreading the fungus.

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