Ringworm sounds scary. The reality is much less so.

Every year, especially during peak kitten season, we see an increase in cats and kittens coming into our care with ringworm. And every year, we notice the same thing happens. Cats with ringworm are often overlooked for adoption. We get it. The name alone sounds alarming.

But here’s the truth: ringworm is common, treatable, and temporary. With the right care, these cats go on to live completely normal, healthy lives. Let’s break down what ringworm actually is, and why adopting a cat with ringworm might be far less daunting than you think.

What is ringworm?

Despite the name, ringworm is not a worm. It’s a fungal skin infection that affects the hair, skin, and sometimes nails.

In cats, it commonly appears as:

• Small circular patches of hair loss

• Mild redness or flakiness

• Occasionally itchy areas

Some cats show very few symptoms, while others may have more noticeable patches.

Ringworm is especially common in:

• Kittens

• Cats from crowded environments

• Animals experiencing stress or lowered immunity

Which is why shelters often see it during busy periods.

Is ringworm dangerous?

For otherwise healthy cats and people, ringworm is not dangerous.

It is:

• Treatable

• Temporary

• Not life-threatening

Yes, it can spread between animals and humans, but with basic hygiene and treatment, it is very manageable. Many families unknowingly deal with ringworm every year through schools, daycares, gyms, and even shared yoga mats.

How is ringworm treated?

Treatment is straightforward and time-limited. Depending on the case, it may include:

• Medicated baths or wipes

• Oral antifungal medication

• Regular cleaning of bedding and surfaces

Our team provides guidance and support, so adopters know exactly what to do. Most cats respond well and recover fully. Once treated, ringworm does not come back unless re-exposed.

Why do cats with ringworm get overlooked?

We see it every year. The word “ringworm” can make people hesitate, even though the condition itself is far less complicated than it sounds. Sadly, this means some incredibly sweet, affectionate, playful cats wait longer for homes simply because of a temporary skin condition. That’s why we talk openly about ringworm. Education helps cats get adopted faster.

Why we run a ringworm adoption special

During kitten season, we care for a high number of cats at once. Ringworm cases increase, adoption slows, and space becomes limited.

Our ringworm adoption special is designed to:

• Encourage informed, compassionate adoptions

• Reduce the length of stay for treatable cases

• Help more cats move into homes where recovery is often quicker and less stressful

Adopting a ringworm cat doesn’t mean “extra hard”. It means extra needed.

These cats are more than a diagnosis

Behind every ringworm case is a cat who:

• Wants a couch to nap on

• Loves chin scratches and warm beds

• Has no idea they’re being overlooked

Ringworm is temporary. Love is permanent.

If you’ve been thinking about adoption and feel confident following a treatment plan, a ringworm cat could be the perfect match for you.

👉 View our adoption page for cats available and learn more about our ringworm adoption special.

Have you thought about adopting a pet but aren’t quite ready to make a lifelong commitment? Why not consider becoming an animal foster carer? Fostering allows you to experience all the joys of pet ownership while providing temporary care to an animal in need.

As a foster carer, you play an essential part in an animal’s journey from shelter life to their furever homes. Fostering provides many benefits for both you and the animal. From confidence building and improving socialisation, here are just some of the reasons fostering can be such a rewarding experience.

A Break from the Shelter Environment

While shelters provide safety and care, they can sometimes be overwhelming for certain animals, particularly older dogs and cats, or those who have experienced neglect or cruelty. An alternative for these animals is a temporary foster home. These animals can receive personalised care and attention while taking a break from the shelter.

At the same time, fostering creates more space within the shelter, allowing Sydney Dogs & Cats Home to support even more animals in need. This results in a significant impact on the community.

Testing the Waters of Pet Ownership

Adopting a pet is a big decision. By fostering instead, you get to “test the waters” of pet ownership and gain a better understanding of an animal’s needs, routines and personality without the pressure of a permanent commitment.

And sometimes, fostering leads to something even more special. Many foster carers fall in love with their foster animal and choose to adopt them permanently, affectionately known as a “foster fail”. A win-win situation for you and your newest family member.

Support Every Step of the Way

The team at Sydney Dogs & Cats Home are here to help you every step of the way. Our team provides guidance, resources and ongoing support throughout the fostering journey. You’ll receive updates, advice and assistance to help ensure both you and your foster animal feel confident and supported.

Saving Lives

When you become an animal foster carer, you are helping to give these animals a second chance at life. Foster care provides a safe space for animals to recover, sometimes for the first time.

Fostering can also help uncover health or behavioural issues that may not have been evident in the shelter environment, ensuring animals receive the care they need. Knowing you’ve played a role in saving a life is an incredibly rewarding experience.

Preparing Animals for Adoption

For animals not yet ready for adoption, a temporary foster home can help them learn what it’s like to live in a home. They can build trust, regain confidence and develop important social skills. Foster carers often help animals learn basic training and everyday routines, increasing their chances of successful adoption. When they are ready for adoption, their chances will have increased.

Becoming an animal foster carer is a rewarding and meaningful way to make a real difference. Interested in learning more about fostering? Click here to learn more and to submit an application.