How to tell if a cat has shingles

It is necessary to carefully examine the kitten that the family decided to take in. Hygiene rules should also be observed for the pet. Veterinarians advise to bathe the cat regularly with special shampoos that kill fleas and spores. The pet should be examined by a doctor once every six months. Vaccinations and treatments against parasites are the key to a cat's strong immunity, allowing it to successfully fight various diseases.

How to determine if your cat has shingles

Lichen is the most common disease in cats and cats, infectious to humans, which can be asymptomatic. About what kinds of infections exist. RIA Novosti, 14.10.2021.

MOSCOW, Oct 8 – RIA Novosti. Lichen is the most common disease in cats and cats, which is contagious for humans and can be asymptomatic. About what kinds of infections exist, how to treat the adult and kitten, and how to prevent shingles – in the article of RIA Novosti.Shingles in catsCats are some of the most frequent carriers of shingles. Usually you can identify the disease by the fact that the animal appears areas without fur with a changed skin color. And it also happens that there are no external symptoms, but the disease is still there and can threaten human health.There are many myths, such as that shingles can not be treated or vice versa – goes away on its own. According to experts, the disease is successfully overcome with the help of modern drugs. However, most types of infection do not disappear on their own and can worsen.About ShinglesLichus is a skin disease that is provoked by different types of fungi or other pathogens, such as allergens. It threatens not only external consequences – loss of pet hair, damaged claws and itching, but also internal – deterioration of health and disruption of organs.The infection is considered one of the most contagious and unpleasant mycosis diseases, is easily transmitted to humans and requires comprehensive treatment.Causes of occurrenceThe most common cause of leaching in pets is low immunity. If a cat is poorly fed and cared for, its body gradually loses its defenses and is exposed to external dangers. Even if the animal is indoor and never leaves the apartment, it does not mean that it is in any danger. Every day a person brings home millions of different microorganisms on shoes and clothes, and fungal shingles can be among them.Other causes of shingles include:TypesLichus is the common name for various forms of skin diseases. Despite the different symptoms and risks, all types of infection are united by the main factor – a strong discomfort of the animal, which negatively affects its skin.Types of lich in cats: characteristic featuresDermatophytosis is the most dangerous and painful type of lich, caused by fungi Microsporum and Trichophyton. The main food source for the microorganisms is keratin, which is found in the animal's hair, claws and skin. The disease can manifest itself either very brightly or asymptomatically, while being transmitted to others. The unobvious danger of this lich lies in the fact that microorganisms are resistant to the external environment, they can live in furniture and tissues for several years, and on skin scales – from 6 to 10 years.If ignored, the problem can lead to alopecia of the animal, deterioration of quality of life, and in kittens even to death because of very weak immunity.Pityrosporum or mottled lich is the causative agent of mottled lich – the yeast fungus Pityrosporum. The disease is often detected in the summer and humid seasons, which is why it is called "beach fever". 90% of animals and humans on the planet are considered carriers of this microorganism, and only under certain conditions (such as a severe decrease in immunity) does it become a problem. In cats it is caused by increased fatness of the skin due to improper nutrition or lack of vitamins.Pink or Gibert's Lichen This type can have both a viral nature (it is not yet fully understood what kind), and allergic – this, in the first place, are inclined to veterinarians. The trigger mechanism for the development of pink fever is a reduced immunity. The disease can be inherited and run up to a certain point in a latent form. Giber disease is contagious for animals, but not for people.Mucous (eczema)Mucous lichen (eczema) is the least similar to its "relatives". It is an inflammatory pathology that is caused by allergies. It is not transmitted to other animals and people, but gives considerable discomfort to its carrier. Detergents, household chemicals, stress and hormonal imbalance are the most common causes of this disease.What to do if you suspect shinglesDetermine the type of cat lich with a single examination is impossible. If any manifestations of the disease are noticeable, it is necessary to follow general measures before diagnosis and treatment: Then it is important to go to the doctor to determine the type of disease and help the animal to cope with it.DiagnosisThe main key to successful treatment of any form of lich – early diagnosis.According to Marina Dubovikova, veterinarian and teacher of Pashkovsky Agricultural College, diagnosis consists of a number of studies and the study of the clinical picture:Treatment of lich in catsThe treatment procedure depends directly on the cause of erection If in one case the change of food will help, in another case a comprehensive approach may be required – pills, ointments, a complete change in diet and lifestyle of the pet. However, any medication has side effects – before you start taking any medication, you need to consult a veterinarian.If you take the treatment of the animal not seriously, you can expect the following consequences:RingwormTopically, after preliminary preparation for treatment, you can start applying ointments: "Clotrimazole", "Sanoderm" or "Miconazole".The comprehensive treatment of ringworm includes improving the diet of the animal. The diet should include additional minerals and vitamins that support the immune system. A sanitization of the room is also necessary.Peptic or variegatedSpongeous lichen needs almost the same type of treatment as ringworm: the use of anti-fungal shampoos, ointments and pills. Effective oral medications doctors include "Imaverol" and "Lime Sulfur".After the completion of treatment, it is recommended to wash the pet once every two months with an antifungal shampoo to prevent a relapse.Pink or Gibera lichAlthough pink lich and disappears by itself without human intervention, however, some measures must be observed:It is important to remember that Gibera lich can be a manifestation of another more serious disease. Therefore, the pet should undergo a complete diagnosis to exclude pathology and not waste time fighting with harmless symptoms.SoakingThis, like its other forms, has a protracted nature and requires a careful approach to treatment. Since the disease is characterized by a "wet" texture, the first thing to do is to use drying and anti-inflammatory local preparations, such as salicylic, sulfuric or tar ointment. They work both as antiseptics and as skin-repairing medications.Mucous eczema thanks to such means can be defeated in 10 days.When to go to the vetAccording to Marina Dubovikova, after the appearance of even a small area of lesion on the body and general malaise of the pet it is necessary to contact the veterinarian:Folk methods of treatment of lich in catsThere are cases when treatment with aggressive drugs is not allowed, for example, when the cat is pregnant. Not yet born kittens are too susceptible to external influences, so the owners have nothing to do but resort to folk and safe methods of treatment of herpes:This treatment is also indispensable in cases where there is no possibility to visit a veterinarian, and the disease must be stopped. However, before deciding on the approach, it is worth consulting a specialist at least by phone. It is important to remember – such methods can help only in the early stages of the disease.How to treat a pregnant cat or kittensTreatment of pregnant cats and kittens lies in a more gentle approach. For example, phytotherapy has a gentle effect on the body of the animal and at the same time is able to effectively combat the disease at the stage of its conception.Do not forget that the treatment also includes measures to disinfect the room where the pet lives. The less bacteria and fungi are on the furniture, the higher the chance that the pet will recover faster and will not be exposed to reinfection.Is cat tetter dangerous for humansThe only threat to humans is the tetter that is provoked by fungi – ringworm and pity. In addition to the fact that the infectious disease spreads fairly quickly, it can also bring a lot of trouble:If untreated, the disease can "flourish" for several years, aggravating the condition of the infected, which will inevitably affect the appearance (baldness, changes in skin, constant weakness and discomfort).PreventionAnd to further reduce the risks of the animal disease, the owners are recommended:Also the doctor added that if you have decided to take a puppy or kitten from the street, it is important to try to

Causes of occurrence

• Chronic diseases that suppress immunity;
• Viral and bacterial infections;
• poor diet;
• predisposition at the genetic level;
• the presence of helminths;
• prolonged treatment with drugs that suppress the defense system.

To diagnose the disease, it is necessary to find out what cat shingles looks like. In the first stage, the disease leads to the death of skin cells. As a result, the following symptoms are found:

• On some areas appear round spots, covered with scales of gray color;
• In the beginning, as a rule, shingles affects the head, neck and paws. In subsequent stages, the spots spread to other parts of the body;
• Animals become inactive, often lose their appetite, and itching occurs. In the mild form of the disease, there may be no itching;
• In the advanced form, the roots of the hairs fester and pus accumulates under the crusts;
• Trichophytosis or ringworm deforms and thickens the claws of the animal;
• Scabs formed on the diseased skin become soggy;
• Peeling of the skin and hair loss occur.

Important! Only a veterinarian can make an accurate diagnosis. It is not easy to determine the form, stage and course of the disease on your own, given that shingles sometimes looks like allergies or dermatitis.

Some time ago, veterinarians called any negative changes on the skin ringworm. Modern medicine has made it possible to study the fungal disease as much as possible and to identify the main types of the disease in pets. It is now known that ringworm in the cat is not the only type of this disease.

Red squamous lichen

The failure of the immune system leads to the emergence of red squamous lichen. Infections and parasites provoke its appearance. It appears as a red squamous blister. When scratched, the blisters burst, creating one large wound. Covers not only the skin but also the oral cavity. It is not contagious.

Diagnosis of the disease

Detecting and diagnosing shingles on a cat's skin can be extremely difficult, because the hair, especially in long-haired pets, hides the affected areas. And regular licking masks the itching and burning.
In order to detect redness, peeling and other signs of the disease in time, it is necessary to regularly inspect the pet. And careful study of the issue, carried out in advance, will help not to panic, and take timely steps to treat.

It is mandatory to go to a veterinary clinic. Doctors use fluorescent diagnostics to detect lupus. If the spot on the skin gives a bright green or emerald glow from an ultraviolet lamp, then the cat is infected with fungus and needs therapy.

Note! Fluorescent diagnosis is 60-70% reliable. Only based on the results of the tests can make an accurate diagnosis.

What does shingles look like in cats

In order not to confuse the disease, you should know how shingles in cats looks like. The first stages of the disease are not always visible externally. The rash that appears on the skin of the pet is not visible under the fur. Usually the spots are white, pink or beige in color. If the cat is long-haired, owners do not see the damage to the skin and coat until there are obvious bald spots.

Lichen is also called "ringworm," because the areas of hair appear as if they have been shorn. The bald spots are round, red in color, and in the center of the bald spot the skin flakes and scales appear. If the cat has had time to scratch these areas, "sores" may appear there.

What does lichen look like in a person?

How does human shingles look like and can it be transmitted from cats? It can and often is. A man with a strong immune system and good health may not "catch" shingles, but the child, often ill or weak people can easily fall ill with shingles. You can tell if you are infected by the following symptoms:

• Certain areas of your skin begin to itch. The itching can be strong or mild, constant or intermittent.
• Yellow, pink spots appear on the body. The edges may be smooth or flaky, with spots appearing randomly. Some damaged areas may begin to fester.
• Hair loss begins, and the bald spot itches.
• Body temperature rises, and the person experiences chills.
• General weakness, loss of strength and moods are observed.
• In some cases, lymph nodes increase.

If such symptoms are detected, do not delay a visit to a dermatologist, as timely diagnosis of the disease can reduce the treatment period several times. Advanced cases are treated for up to six months with isolation from society.

Your doctor will prescribe a comprehensive examination with tests to determine the type of fungus – the set of medications depends on it. Prepare yourself that in addition to smearing the rash and taking medications, you will have to give up bathing, skin rubbing, will need to follow a diet and increase the intake of immunomodulatory agents. Particular attention should be paid to personal hygiene during the disease, limit any contact with people.

Prevention

To prevent the disease, simple recommendations should be followed:

1. Do not allow the pet to communicate with stray animals.
2. Carry out daily cleaning in the apartment using various disinfectants.
3. Always treat the cat for all parasites.
4. Regular visits to the veterinarian and vaccinations.

How to protect yourself and your family

A pet suffering from shingles must be treated immediately. You should also take all possible measures to avoid infecting people:

• Bedding and clothing should be washed frequently and treated with a hot iron.
• In the room, all surfaces should be cleaned daily using disinfectants.
• The cat bed and other care items should be washed regularly in hot water.
• The room should be ventilated frequently.
• Disposable gloves should be used when handling affected skin areas in animals and humans.

It's very easy to avoid catching herpes – remember to vaccinate your pet and follow the rules of hygiene. If a cat does get sick, it is important to start treatment as soon as the first symptoms appear. This is the only way to quickly get rid of the infection and protect others from possible infection.

💡 A side note. More than half of the questions related to your pet's health can be solved remotely: by phone or online correspondence. At Veterinarian Online, you can get a consultation with a specialist, quickly and without having to travel to a veterinary clinic. The cost of the service: 399 rubles.