Cat Ringworm vs Scabies: Different Symptoms, Different Treatments!

"Doctor, my cat has a fungal infection — I've been applying cream but it's not getting better!"

We hear this very often. The problem is that the diagnosis is frequently wrong. The owner assumes it's ringworm, when it is actually Scabies caused by microscopic mites. Different cause, completely different treatment!

1. Understanding Ringworm (Dermatophytosis)

• Cause: Fungal infection caused by Microsporum canis.
• Typical Symptoms: Circular bald patches (alopecia) with a reddish, ring-like border. The skin in the centre is dry and scaly, like dandruff. Usually not intensely itchy.
• Location: Can appear anywhere; often on the body or head.
• Diagnosis: A Wood's Lamp (UV light) causes the affected area to fluoresce green.

2. Understanding Scabies (Notoedric Mange)

• Cause: The mite Notoedres cati, which burrows tunnels beneath the skin.
• Typical Symptoms: EXTREMELY INTENSE ITCHING. The cat scratches until it bleeds. Skin becomes thick, wrinkled, and covered in grey, cement-like crusts.
• Location: Starts at the ear tips and face, then spreads to the neck and legs.
• Diagnosis: Skin scraping examined under a microscope.

Quick Comparison Table

Skin Examination at Your Home

Unsure which condition your cat has? Don't guess. Using the wrong treatment can make ringworm worse (ointment creates moisture that fungi love) or allow mites to develop resistance.

Birawa Vet doctors can come to your home with a Wood's Lamp and a microscope (if needed) to confirm the diagnosis before administering the correct treatment.