A local rescue got 4, 4-week old Siamese kittens dumped by a kitten mill. They are now 9 weeks old, and have rhino and eye infections. They also have ringworm, but because of their condition, traditional treatment for the ringworm cannot be used.
I just read this anecdotal account from a breeder. Has anyone heard of this or tried it? Any comments welcome!
I just read this anecdotal account from a breeder. Has anyone heard of this or tried it? Any comments welcome!
I decided to try something new. I diluted Clorox (bleach, 5% sodium hypochlorite) with 5-10 volumes of water. (I didn't measure) Using a Q-Tip, in the dark, under the UV light. I dabbed the spot. I was astounded to see the fluorescence disappear in 10 seconds. I washed the spot with water to remove the Clorox. I was even more astounded the next day to see that the lesion had disappeared. After 3 weeks, no hair loss, no additional spots. I also mopped the floor with Clorox (4oz/gal).
I regret that I didn't get a culture to prove that it was really ringworm. But from prior experience I am 99% sure that it was. If anyone else has success with this technique I would appreciate feedback. It was a small spot, just 1/4 x 1/2 inch. I would not advise using such a strong Clorox as a general bath. However a greater dilution for a longer time might be suitable. Obviously, the key here is following the disappearance of the fluorescence under UV light.
Update (Nov. 16, 2005): Clorox (bleach) works very well. Many people have had success with this method. 2-3 treatments diluted by 5 or 10 parts of water should do it. Just be sure to wash it off very well with water.