How To Help Kittens With Ringworm - Kitten Lady

A more effective diagnostic method is a fungal culture called a Dermatophyte Test Medium or DTM. With these tests, the suspected lesions are brushed with a clean toothbrush, picking up samples of the fur and skin. The sample is then tapped into the DTM tray which can rapidly sporulate the fungus, if present. The DTM kit needs to stay in a warm, dark area where it will stay undisturbed. DTM tests are typically done at a veterinarian’s office, but can also be purchased online for the experienced rescuer. Check out this video of a shelter using DTM diagnostic trays in their ringworm unit! These tests can take up to two weeks to process--so it is best to start treatment right away if ringworm is suspected. Being proactive will speed up the process for you and the kitten.

You can also talk to your veterinarian about a ringworm PCR test, which is a highly effective diagnostic test that can determine if your kitten has ringworm.

Protecting Yourself and Your Space

When you have ringworm kittens, you’ll want to protect your environment, your supplies, and yourself to ensure that the fungal spores are not spreading. Whenever coming into contact with the kittens or their space, you will want to:

• Use gloves

• Wear protective clothing such as a smock or a large shirt and booties/socks

• Put your hair up into a bun

• Avoid bringing any unnecessary items with you, like cell phones

Put your kittens in a contained space like a plastic playpen that can be sanitized daily. Make sure to only put things that can be washed or disinfected in their space, or use things that are single use and can be easily thrown away afterwards. You’ll still want to give the kittens toys and enrichment of course, but try using plush toys that can be washed, or DIY toys that can be tossed after (check out this video for easy DIY toy ideas!) Be very careful not to let the exposed items touch anything else in your home. Several times a week, change the kitten’s bedding and toys, and sanitize soiled items in a washing machine with hot water and bleach. Completely disinfect the kittens’ area and all supplies using an approved disinfectant. My recommendation is to use a product like Rescue disinfectant.

Medicated Dips and Baths

Twice a week, your kitten will need either a medicated lime sulfur dip or a medicated bath with an anti-fungal shampoo. While lime sulfur dip is traditionally thought of as the go-to treatment for ringworm, it can also be very drying and caustic on the skin, and Kitten Lady recommends considering a medicated Ketohex bath instead, which is equally effective.

Whichever method you choose, be advised that after your dip or bath, the kitten should return to fresh bedding and a sanitized playpen so that she is not reinfected with fungal spores. Ensure that she has fresh toys, bedding, and a comfortable heat pad.

Lime Sulfur Dip Method

Lime sulfur dip is a pungent yellow liquid that acts as a powerful antifungal agent, and it is soaked into the fur and left to dry on the kitten's skin.