Why does my pet's ringworm look worse while on medication?

Question

Buttercup has ringworm and is currently on oral antifungal meds. The area looks flaky/crusty/dry skin peeling. Is it a sign the ringworm getting worse and he isn’t responding to the meds? Thanks. Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 14 years old | 11 lbs

Kevin Sanada, DVM · Accepted Answer

They can definitely look worse right before they get better. This happens when the body pushes out the old/diseased skin and hair while the new/healthy skin and hair grows in. Oral medication is very effective for ringworm and not prone to resistance like some bacterial infections, so I doubt it's getting worse. It's also a good sign if it's just the existing lesions that look worse; rather than there being new lesions. If new lesions are seen, then this would indicate that the treatment is not working and would require a recheck by your veterinarian. I hope that helps and Buttercup gets better soon.

Why does my pet's ringworm look worse while on medication?

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