CDC

Ringworm

(Dermatophytosis Infection)

illustration of girl and dog, both with red patches on their skin

Girl next to dog. Both have red round patches on their skin.

Ringworm is a skin and scalp disease caused by fungi. It gets its name from the characteristic ring-like rash on the skin. The disease is spread by touching an infected person or animal. It can also be spread by touching objects or surfaces that had contact with the infection. If infected, people often begin itching four to fourteen days after contact. The rash may be scaly, reddened, and circular. Ringworm on the scalp usually makes a bald patch of scaly skin.

How animals and people become infected

Animals, like people, get infected through touching an infected animal's skin or hair or by touching things that are infected with the fungus, like blankets and towels.

Many different kinds of animals can transmit ringworm to people. Dogs and cats, especially kittens or puppies, can have ringworm that can be passed to people. Cows, goats, pigs, and horses can also pass ringworm to people.

Ringworm appearance in pets

Dogs and cats

Adult animals, especially long-haired cats, do not always show signs of ringworm infection. Puppies and kittens most often have patches that are hairless, circular, or irregularly shaped areas of scaling, crusting, and redness that may or may not be itchy. The area may not be completely hairless, and instead have brittle, broken hairs. If the claws are affected, they may have a whitish, opaque appearance with shredding of the claw's surface. If you suspect your pet has ringworm, make sure it is seen by a veterinarian.

Lambs

Ringworm is also fairly common in show lambs, and is referred to as "club lamb fungus." Lambs usually have circular, hairless areas with thick scabs on their head and face.

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