Ringworm in dogs and cats… with a name like ringworm, we’re bound to get confused about this condition. Thankfully, there are no actual worms involved. Unfortunately, it is a highly contagious fungal infection that can spread from animals to humans (or vice versa). Great.
Ringworm is a common fungal infection that causes circular patches of hair loss, redness, and itching. It is caused by fungi known as dermatophytes. Fortunately, mild cases can often be treated at home naturally. Here’s how you can help your pet recover.
Ringworm in Dogs and Cats
As mentioned, ringworm is something both dogs and cats can get. Microsporum canis is the most common type of dermatophyte infecting both dogs and cats.
So, what does it look like?
- Circular areas of hair loss
- Broken and stubbly hair
- Scaling or crusty skin
- Alterations in hair or skin colour
- Circular, inflamed areas of skin
- Excessive grooming and scratching
- Infected claws or nail beds
- Itchiness and irritation
- Brittle or broken hair
- Spread of lesions to other areas of the body
- Dandruff
All of these are typically round – or “ring-like” – hence the name, ringworm.
How to Treat Ringworm in Dogs and Cats Naturally
In healthy animals, ringworm will often clear up on its own. But, these remedies will help bring some comfort from the itching and help relieve the infection sooner. And that’s good, as it will also help minimize the risk of it spreading.
Please note – not all of these are good for kitties, so note the recommendations for each before using them with your furry feline.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
Apple cider vinegar has natural antifungal properties that can help combat ringworm.
- Mix equal parts of raw, unfiltered ACV and water.
- Use a cotton ball to apply it directly to the affected areas twice daily.
🐕 🐈For dogs and cats.
2. Oil of Oregano
Oil of oregano has potent antifungal properties. Be sure you’re not using oregano oil (that’s oil infused with oregano for cooking).
- Dilute a drop of oil in a teaspoon of carrier oil like MCT oil.
- Apply sparingly to ringworm spots once daily.
🐕 For dogs only.
3. Lemongrass Essential Oil
Lemongrass essential oil can help heal ringworm wounds and stop them from spreading further.
- Dilute lemongrass oil by mixing 2-3 drops in 1 teaspoon of carrier oil like almond oil. Rub it 3 to 4 times a day on the affected area.
- You can also apply a cool, brewed tea bag directly to the ringworm.
🐕 For dogs only.
4. Turmeric Paste
Curcumin, found in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory and antifungal effects.
- Mix turmeric powder with a little coconut oil and pepper to make golden paste (here’s our recipe).
- Apply it to the affected area and leave it on for about 10 minutes before rinsing off.
🐕 🐈For dogs and cats.
5. Chamomile Tea
Using chamomile tea topically can help soothe the itching and reduce some of the inflammation.
- Steep chamomile tea bags, then let the water cool.
- Apply the tea to the affected skin and let it soak in. Don’t rinse.
🐕 🐈For dogs and cats.
6. Colloidal Silver
Colloidal silver has potent antifungal properties.
- Apply a few drops to the affected area and let it dry naturally.
🐕 🐈For dogs and cats.
7. ABA Skin HEALth Spray
Our Skin HEALTH Spray is a combination of several herbs, including horsetail, calendula, and hypericum. These all have potent antifungal, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties!
- Spray on the affected area 2-3 times per day.
🐕 🐈For dogs and cats.
Hygiene and Environmental Care
Since ringworm is highly contagious, you also want to do all you can to prevent it from spreading.
- Wash your pet’s bedding, toys, and grooming tools frequently.
- Vacuum your home regularly to remove fungal spores.
- Limit contact with other pets until the infection clears.
- Practice good hygiene by washing your hands after snuggling and petting.
- Wash down hard surfaces with a natural disinfectant like white vinegar.
When to See a Vet
Ringworm usually isn’t serious. Natural remedies are often all that’s needed to clear things up!
That said, sometimes veterinary treatment may be necessary, especially if the infection spreads or worsens. Seek professional help if:
- The ringworm lesions grow larger or spread rapidly.
- Your pet appears to be in pain or discomfort.
- Other pets or family members develop similar symptoms.
- If your animal has generalized ringworm (all over their body). This is unusual, but it can be a sign of Cushing’s disease or another immunodeficiency.
Ringworm in dogs and cats is not very nice, but thankfully we can avoid the harsh antifungals with a little love from Mother Nature. Try out these remedies, give them a little time to work, and you (and your adored beast) will be happy you did!
