Should I treat both cats for ringworm if only one shows symptoms?

Question

My 1 and 1/2 year old cat was diagnosed with ringworm a few days ago and although we’ve started oral meds and shampoo with a topical disinfectant it seems to be spreading and getting worse. I took my two cats to the vet the first Dr said to treat both on oral medications straight away for 45 days. The other Dr who was on call said it was pointless treating both cats if one of them showed no symptoms. Can someone recommend? Treat both cats or just one. This whole thing is a real headache to treat. Pet's info: Cat | Siamese | Male | neutered | 1 year and 7 months old | 13 lbs

Daniel Fonza, DVM · Accepted Answer

I would recommend treating both cats because up to 20% of ringworm affected cats can be asymptomatic carriers, meaning that you will not see any symptoms but they are still carrying the ringworm and can spread it. It will not hurt to treat the other cat. If the ringworm is spreading and not resolving, a different treatment needs to be considered and I would discuss this further with the prescribing veterinarian. Griseofulvin and topical treatments like ketoconazole can be used to treat ringworm but sometimes this depends on the ringworm species for which medication is most effective. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

Should I treat both cats for ringworm if only one shows symptoms?

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