Ringworm: Not a Worm, Very Contagious, Completely Curable

What it actually is

Ringworm is a fungal skin infection, not a worm. It spreads by contact — pet to pet, pet to human, and via bedding, brushes and furniture. Kittens, puppies and shelter animals are the usual carriers.

What to look for

Classic circular patches of hair loss with scaly, sometimes red edges — on faces, ears, paws. In people, itchy red rings on arms or neck (often after cuddling a new kitten). Some animals carry it with no visible signs at all.

Treatment

Vets confirm with a lamp check or fungal culture, then treat with antifungal medication — usually oral plus medicated dips or creams — for several weeks, rechecking until cultures come back clean. Stopping early is how it boomerangs.

Decontaminate or repeat

Spores survive months in the environment. Vacuum relentlessly, hot-wash bedding, disinfect surfaces and grooming tools, and limit the infected pet's range during treatment. Wash hands after handling — especially kids, the most commonly infected humans.