How to Treat Ringworm in Dogs and Cats

Fungus such as ringworm (Dermaphtytes)is usually not a health risk, but more of a nuisance and eyesore. It spreads easily, so great care must be taken when treating an infected area. Treatment should be started immediately after confirming a case of ringworm.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Put on rubber or latex free (latex free if allergic) gloves. It is possible to catch ringworm from your pets.

2. Trim or clip down the hair as close to the skin as possible without touching the ringworm. Bursting the blisters can cause the ringworm to spread. Be sure to clean the scissors or clippers with bleach water afterward.

3. Apply an anti-fungal cream such as Lotrimin cream twice a day.

4. For a natural, home remedy on adult pets, use undiluted apple cider vinegar. Simply sponge it on the ringworm once a day. If it seems to be irritating on the skin discontinue use. Do not use on small puppies and kittens.

5. For pets that the apple cider vinegar irritates and small puppies and kittens use coconut oil. Apply it to the ringworm once a day.

6. If your pet's ringworm does not improve with treatment in 2 weeks, see a vet for an oral treatment. Oral treatments can be hard on the animal's liver. Please keep in mind before using an oral treatment that most ringworm will heal on its own within 2 to 4 months.

7. To avoid another infestation, during treatment clean everything the pet comes in contact with with a bleach solution of 1 part bleach and 10 parts water. If bleach can not be used on the item, wash it with extremely hot water.

Tips & Warnings

• If it's not possible to use a cream or cut the hair of your pet, you can get a special shampoo from your vet for treatment.
• Discontinue use if the treatment is causing the animal pain.
• See a vet immediately if something doesn't seem right, it might not be ringworm.