Cats are an essential part of our lives, and they make for great pets. But, as with all creatures, they are prone to illness, and one of the most common afflictions that affect cats is ringworm. The ...

Understanding the Context

Ringworm is an infection that many cat owners may be familiar with, either through experience or word of mouth. Contrary to its misleading name, ringworm is not caused by a worm but rather by a group ... The Sun News: NC shelter pauses cat adoptions amid ringworm outbreak. How to protect your pet.

Key Insights

A ringworm virus outbreak is threatening the lives of Gaston County Police Animal Care and Enforcement’s cat population, the shelter said Thursday. To avoid further spread, the shelter has partially ... NC shelter pauses cat adoptions amid ringworm outbreak. How to protect your pet. Ringworm of the body is related to athlete's foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris) and ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis).

Final Thoughts

Ringworm often spreads by direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or animal. Mild ringworm often responds to antifungal medications applied to the skin. For more-severe infections, you may need to take antifungal pills for several weeks. For ringworm, some basic questions to ask your doctor include: What might be causing the signs and symptoms? Are tests needed to confirm the diagnosis? What is the best treatment?

Is this condition temporary or chronic? Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing? Can I wait to see if the condition goes away on its own? Ringworm of the scalp is a contagious infection.