There are many and varied parasites and fungi responsible for skin disorders in cats. Mites are microscopic animals responsible for mange or itching. Insects such as fleas and lice can be found in a cat's coat. They cause conditions called respectively pulicosis (flea infestation) and pediculosis (louse infestation).Dermatophytes are microscopic filamentous fungi that subsist on the keratin in hair or on the surface of the skin. They are the agents responsible for ringworm. Some of the pathogenic agents described here can be transmitted to humans. Cheyletiella mites produce a small scabby rash on the body and pruritis (itching). Itching may be so intense that a visit to a dermatologist is necessary. In this case, based on the lesions, the physician may recommend that the owner take his cat to a veterinarian to treat the cat for parasites.
Fleas found on domestic animals occasionally get the taste for human blood. Finally, dermatophytes, particularly the species common to cats, are easily transmitted to humans. They produce annular lesions, called tinea circinata, on glabrous (smooth and bare) skin, most often on the forearms, face, or neck. Unlike the symptoms observed in the animal, inflammation and itching in humans can be extreme.
Of all feline skin disorders, pulicosis (flea infestation) and ringworm merit particular attention. These disorders are very common and often difficult or impossible to prevent, particularly when we consider that the cat is not an isolated animal, but part of a community of cats.
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