How contagious is cat ringworm and how long until symptoms appear?

Question

So my cat Lucille had a dry bald patch on her ear and we took her to the vet and he thinks it's ringworm. He sent some hairs away and we will hopefully know for sure this week. Just curious as to how easily it is spread? How long before symptoms show? She had some contact with my kitten Maui for a few hours before i separated them and then brought Maui back to my apartment. How likely is it that Maui might get it? the vet perscribed some cream for her ear, how contagious Is she with the cream? Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 11 months and 14 days old | 7 lbs

Dr. Davis · Accepted Answer

I don't find ringworm to be very contagious. Often litters of kittens all get it when they have been together all of the time. If Lucille and Maui were only together for a short time and Maui is healthy it should not spread. It may take several weeks for a new case of ringworm to show. The cream should start to heal the lesion quickly and reduce the likelihood that it will spread. You also can get ringworm so please wash your hands after handling the kittens. People can get it more easily when they have scratches or cuts on their hands. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you get answers to your veterinary questions.

How contagious is cat ringworm and how long until symptoms appear?

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