Overview

Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection of the skin, caused by Microsporum canis. It is spread from person to person, from animal to person, or indirectly from contaminated objects.  Ringworm is typically seen in young cats, long-haired cats, and cats with pre-existing skin disease or trauma. Diseases or medications that suppress the immune system generally render cats more susceptible to ringworm.

Typical lesions are circular areas of hair loss on the hair coat; however, any change in the hair coat and/or skin may be consistent with ringworm. The affected skin often appears scaly and inflamed. Some cats suffer from severe skin disease while others have minor lesions or even none at all.

Diagnosis and Treatment Notes:

  • Ringworm is generally diagnosed by history, physical examination and a fungal culture of the hair. A presumptive diagnosis can sometimes be made by using a Wood’s lamp. Some types of ringworm will fluoresce under this light.
  • Treatment depends on the severity of the disease, your individual pet, and your veterinarian. Many cats will resolve an infection spontaneously over several months, but treatment generally expedites cure and helps reduce environmental contamination. Some cats benefit from oral anti-fungals such as griseofulvin. Anti-fungal creams and shampoos will help reduce environmental contamination.  Discuss treatment details when your pet is diagnosed with this condition.

 

What to Watch for*:

  • Circular areas of hair loss
  • Scaly and inflamed skin

*Please notify us if you notice any of the above signs or if you have any questions!

Dear Valued Clients

During these challenging times, there have been some unforeseen changes at The Big Easy Animal Hospital. I cannot express enough my sincere apology for any inconvenience you have experienced at The Big Easy during these times. As we strive to make the practice safe to protect everyone including you, your family, and our Big Easy team and their families, I’ve decided to make certain changes while we are under this pandemic. These changes will be temporary.

 

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday:
Walk Ins: Check-in starts at 9:45am.There are a limited amount of patients we can accept. Our receptionists will be happy to assist you with options to help guide you and your pet(s).)

 

Saturday Hours

Saturdays will be TECHNICIAN APPOINTMENTS only. These will include boosters, bloodwork, nail trims, certain diagnostics, etc. There will not be a veterinarian on site. While I understand these changes can be inconvenient, I have listed local veterinary clinics that we have contacted and are open to see walk-ins throughout the week and Saturdays as well. For life threatening emergencies that occur outside business hours, please contact the following 24-hour animal hospitals below.

Please, be safe and healthy.

Thank you all for your understanding. -Aileen Ruiz, DVM

 

24 Hour Emergency Care:

 

Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center

807 Camp Horne Road
Pittsburgh, PA
(412)366-3400

 

AVETS

4224 Northern Pike
Monroeville, PA
(412)373-4200


VCA Castle Shannon Animal Hospital

3610 Library Road
Pittsburgh, PA
(412)885-2500


Veterinarians Accepting Walk in Care:

Penn Animal Hospital

2205 Penn Avenue
(412)471-9855
WALK—IN’S—MONDAY THRU FRIDAY from 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM


North Boros Veterinary Hospital

2255 Babcock Blvd
(412)821-5600
WALK-IN’S—MONDAY THRU FRIDAY from 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM

 

 

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