My kitten has a dry nose, puffy eye, and fur loss. Is it ringworm?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on December 2nd, 2017

  It is really difficult to tell much from the photos - they are a bit fuzzy. That being said, it does not appear to be normal from what I can see. There are three very common reasons for hairloss in kittens: ringworm, mange or fleas. There are others but they would be less likely: pyoderma (skin bacterial infection), pemphigus, injury, underlying endocrine disease, etc.
  
  Ringworm is the number one rule out in kittens and that is my best guess at this point. Since ringworm is contagious to humans and other animals I suggest you get Pernell to your vet for an exam and to talk about testing and treatment options. Many skin diseases will look similar in presentation so testing is important. You need to know what you are dealing with so the proper treatment can be instituted. Ringworm and mange have different treatments, as do most other skin diseases on the list.
  
  So, try to get him in to your vet for an exam ASAP. At 11 weeks of age he should have already had some vaccinations, if not , he is definitely due for those (should have had 1st set at 8 weeks of age, 2nd set would be at 12 weeks of age and final set at 16 weeks of age). In the meantime, wash your hands very well after handling him so that if it is ringworm, hopefully you won't get it.
  
  Hope this helps. Best wishes.

  

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• Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

  Veterinary Technician

  Published on August 24th, 2019

  Unfortunately, to determine what is causing it, you would need to bring your cat into your vet. Ringworm can be tested for with a Wood's lamp while other issues such as mange can be looked for under a microscope or with a skin-scraping test. Depending on the cause, treatment will vary but usually includes medicated shampoos, antibiotics, or other medications. As some conditions such as ringworm are highly contagious to other pets and people, keeping all areas cleaned, changing clothing, washing hands, and keeping the kitten separated is best until the cause is found.

  

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• Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

  Veterinarian

  Published on June 3rd, 2018

  This presentation could be due to a trauma or localized spot of skin infection (likely to be caused by bacteria but unfortunately ringworm could be responsible for it as well). A check up, appropriate disinfection and possibly antibiotics (oral, topical or in a shampoo formulation) are needed to solve the problem.
  Buster collar may be useful as well to avoid any overgrooming. scratching.
  No emergency seems needed at this stage, but a check up will be required first thing on Monday.
  
  Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful