

When you have ringworm kittens, you’ll want to protect your environment, your supplies, and yourself to ensure that the fungal spores are not spreading. You can also talk to your veterinarian about a ringworm PCR test, which is a highly effective diagnostic test that can determine if your kitten has ringworm. Being proactive will speed up the process for you and the kitten. Check out this video of a shelter using DTM diagnostic trays in their ringworm unit! These tests can take up to two weeks to process-so it is best to start treatment right away if ringworm is suspected. DTM tests are typically done at a veterinarian’s office, but can also be purchased online for the experienced rescuer. The DTM kit needs to stay in a warm, dark area where it will stay undisturbed. The sample is then tapped into the DTM tray which can rapidly sporulate the fungus, if present. With these tests, the suspected lesions are brushed with a clean toothbrush, picking up samples of the fur and skin. If you’re able to save some kittens from the fungal jungle, you should consider signing up to foster ringworm kittens at your local shelter! By dedicating a few weeks of your time to helping kittens through the healing process, you’ll be saving their lives.Ī more effective diagnostic method is a fungal culture called a Dermatophyte Test Medium or DTM. Because ringworm is quite contagious in a high-volume setting, kittens with ringworm are at risk of euthanasia without a foster home that is willing to take them home.

While ringworm is not lethal in and of itself, it can be a death sentence for kittens in some shelters. Ringworm is zoonotic, meaning it is contagious to humans, but fear not: with the proper care and sanitization, it can be easily contained to ensure that you and the other animals that share your home stay fungus-free! Fortunately, it is totally treatable and kittens can make a full recovery with care. This funky fungus preys on the young and immunocompromised, putting kittens at a high risk of infection when exposed.
#OTC MEDICINE FOR RINGWORM SKIN#
Ringworm, despite its misleading name, is actually not a worm at all-it is a fungal infection of the skin and hair.
#OTC MEDICINE FOR RINGWORM HOW TO#
Helping Kittens with ringworm How to help kittens escape the fungal jungle
