Question

<br></br>My cat has ringworm and when trying to clean the room she has been reaiding in i ran out of cleaning lysol and switched to lysol disinfectant wipes thinking since the cleaner is supposed to kill the spores when used as directed then the wipes should work as well. Now i am beginning to doubt and am anxious that i spent a lot of time, energy, and sweat doing something that is fruitless and just gave me a temporary false sense of security until i need to clean again. Do they work in a pinch when used according to the directions or was all the effort for jothing?

Answer 1

I understand your concern about cleaning your cat's living area to prevent the spread of ringworm. Lysol disinfectant wipes can be effective for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, but their effectiveness against ringworm spores may not be as high as using dedicated antifungal products.

Ringworm is a fungal infection caused by various fungi and not actual worms. The spores of these fungi can be resilient and challenging to eliminate entirely. While Lysol disinfectant wipes can help reduce the number of spores on surfaces, they may not be as potent as specialized antifungal cleaners designed specifically to combat fungal infections.

For cleaning a room with a ringworm-infected cat, consider the following steps:

1. Remove clutter: Clear the room of any unnecessary items or clutter, as spores can live on various surfaces.

2. Vacuum: Vacuum the room thoroughly, including carpets, upholstery, and any other soft surfaces. Dispose of the vacuum bag immediately afterward.

3. Disinfect: Wipe down all surfaces, such as furniture, floors, and walls, using Lysol disinfectant wipes or an antifungal cleaner. Pay extra attention to areas the cat frequently uses or rubs against.

4. Wash bedding and fabrics: Wash all bedding, curtains, and any washable fabrics in hot water with detergent. High temperatures help kill the fungal spores.

5. Isolate the cat: If possible, keep the infected cat in a separate area or room until the infection is under control.

6. Seek veterinary care: Consult with your veterinarian for appropriate treatment for your cat's ringworm. Treating the cat will also help reduce the spore load in the environment.

7. Monitor and re-clean: Continue monitoring the room and your cat for signs of ringworm. If needed, repeat the cleaning process regularly to ensure a thorough and ongoing prevention effort.

To increase the efficacy of your cleaning efforts, consider using an antifungal cleaner recommended by your veterinarian or one specifically designed to combat ringworm. These products are formulated to better target fungal spores and improve the chances of eliminating them from the environment.

Remember that ringworm can be persistent, and it's essential to take both medical and cleaning measures to effectively control and eliminate the infection. If you have any doubts or concerns, consult with your veterinarian for tailored advice and guidance on managing ringworm in your cat and the living environment.