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Does my cat have ringworm? What are the signs and next steps?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

I was wondering if either of these pictures are ring worm. These are two different cats.

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on September 3rd, 2020

From the pictures, those do not look like typical ringworm lesions, but I cannot make a diagnosis without seeing the cats in person. I'd have them seen by a vet. The vet can use a Wood's lamp as well as a fungal culture to see if they do have ringworm. If they do, the vet can prescribe an oral medication. Topical medications for ringworm typically do not work on cats because Microsporum canis (fungal organism causing ringworm) is spread diffusely throughout a cat's entire hair coat, such that an isolated topical spray will not cover all surfaces of every hair, and lead to frequent recurrence. Give the vet a call now to make them an appointment. I hope this helps!

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