Ringworm in Ferrets | PetMD

What is Ringworm in Ferrets?

Tinea is the common name for dermatophytosis, an infection characterized by the presence of dermatophytes, a fungus that grows on the skin.

Ringworm is most common in young ferrets that are kept in groups, such as those in pet stores, or in ferrets that are stressed. Fortunately, ringworm is rare in pet ferrets.

Ringworm infections are contagious to other pets and humans, so it’s important to take preventative measures and consult your veterinarian as well as your family doctor if you suspect your ferret has an infection.

Symptoms of Ringworm in Ferrets

Ferrets with ringworm rarely experience itching.

Causes of Ringworm in Ferrets

In ferrets, the most common dermatophyte infections are Microsporum canis and Trichophyton mentagrophytes The fungus is transmitted by direct contact with infected animals or contaminated materials that carry the infection.

The vectors of dermatophytes are usually other pets, but recent studies suggest that animal equipment such as brushes, collars and bedding may also be sources of infection.

Dermatophytes are highly resistant to various environmental conditions, so reinfection is common unless treatment is accompanied by thorough environmental cleanup.

How a Veterinarian Diagnoses Ringworm in Ferrets

The traditional way to diagnose ringworm is to look at a sample under a microscope or culture it, but newer techniques use the specimen’s DNA to determine the presence of certain fungi or bacteria.

Treating Ringworm in Ferrets

The first step in treating ringworm is to isolate any infected pets, and areas where the pets have lived should be thoroughly cleaned to prevent the spread of the disease.

Treatment includes regular baths with an antifungal shampoo. Myconahex + Triz Shampoo for Dogs and Cats or Douxo S3 PYO Antiseptic Antifungal Chlorhexidine Shampoo for Dogs and Cats and Applications Topical lotion If disease is confined to a small area, oral medications such as griseofulvin or ketoconazole may be needed.

Environmental Cleanup

Remove all pet hair by wiping or vacuuming surfaces. Wear gloves. Once all litter has been removed, all surfaces should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Launder all clothing, bedding and towels that have come into contact with the infected ferret. Cleaning the environment should continue daily until all infestation is gone.

Recovery and Management of Ringworm in Ferrets

The prognosis is generally good if veterinary treatment is given early and the ferret’s environment is thoroughly cleaned. Ringworm does not usually have long-term effects on ferrets. If severe or left untreated, your ferret may develop permanent scarring and hair loss.

Preventing Ringworm in Ferrets

Ringworm can be prevented by quarantining all pets for a minimum of two weeks before welcoming them into the home. Before bringing your ferret home, all carriers, bedding and toys should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected with a chlorhexidine or 10% bleach solution and allowed to air dry.

In the physical examination Ferret-experienced veterinarian Early detection of the first signs of skin disease is important for a good prognosis.