Ringworm is the common name for a skin infection caused by a group of fungi. It is not caused by a worm at all. Most often it will cause a furless circular area that is red and may be slightly raised. Ringworm may cause other symptoms but these circular lesions with no hair are the most common symptom. It is contagious to humans and other animals.

Your cat may be prescribed a once daily oral medicated and will need lime sulfur baths once or twice weekly. If you adopt a cat with ringworm, we will give you supplies and resources you need to get started and counseling on how to manage the treatment. Treatment length varies with every cat but we believe a cat will heal faster in a home. We are always happy to answer any questions and provide support. You can always email catterystaff@green-hill.org or call 541-689-1503.

Ringworm is temporary! A cat’s recovery is less stressful at home than at the shelter and will resolve much quicker. We will send you and your new kitty home with the tools necessary to make treatment manageable. Plus, you’ll create a special bond with your new companion. Cats with ringworms have a discounted adoption price and just as much love to give.

You and anybody in your home may get ringworm, but there are many things you can do to limit the risk! We recommend to always wash your hands after handling the cat, keep up with their bath treatment and oral medicine, and keep them isolated to a specific room for the length of their treatment. Remember this is only temporary!

Ringworm is curable and temporary (closely related to athlete’s foot in people) but we recommend you see a physician.

We recommend keeping your cat isolated in a room that is easy to clean (like a bathroom) while it is undergoing treatment. Washing your hands and changing your clothes in between interactions with your ringworm kitty and other animals can reduce the chance of spreading the fungus as well.