Eradication of feline dermatophytosis in a shelter: a field study

Abstract

Enzootic dermatophytosis in a shelter with approximately 140 cats was treated according to a protocol combining identification, isolation and treatment of subclinical carrier and affected animals in accordance with a three-area system: healthy animals (no lesions and negative cultures), subclinical carrier animals (no lesions but with positive cultures) and clinically affected animals (lesions and positive cultures). The cats were examined and inspected under a Wood's lamp and had samples taken for fungal culture every 2 weeks. Thirty-three per cent of the cats had a positive fungal culture at the start of the study. Clinically affected animals and carriers were treated with a 0.2% enilconazole lotion (Imaverol) twice a week and given itraconazole (Itrafungol) 5 mg/kg SID orally every other week. The environment was treated once a day with a 1% bleach solution and once a week with a 0.6% enilconazole (Clinafarm) solution. Treated animals were considered cured after two consecutive negative fungal cultures. All cats were cured within 56 days. Prophylactic measures against dermatophytosis were implemented for new arrivals consisting of individual quarantine and the systematic taking of fungal cultures. No relapses were observed based on the fungal cultures taken from the animals and the environment over the first 10 months.

Infectious diseases in large-scale cat hoarding investigations

“…Dermatophytosis is an important consideration when sheltering cats from any source because it is highly contagious, has zoonotic potential, and can be difficult to diagnose and to treat (Carlotti et al, 2010). Its management is particularly challenging when sheltering large numbers of seized cats, because of the potential transmission of Microsporum canis in temporary shelters to both cats and to humans.…”

Demographics and economic burden of un-owned cats and dogs in the UK: results of a 2010 census

“…The presence of an isolation and quarantine facility is important in the control of infectious diseases in shelters [35][36][37]. Most respondents had some form of isolation facility; however 26.2% and 17% had none, for dogs and cats respectively.…”

Use of itraconazole and either lime sulphur or Malaseb Concentrate Rinse® to treat shelter cats naturally infected with Microsporum canis: an open field trial

“…We have previously shown that a 21‐day course of itraconazole (10 mg/kg orally once daily) and twice weekly lime sulphur cured all cats by day 49 2 . In a recently published French study, cats treated with 0.2% enilconazole (Imaverol ® ) twice weekly and oral itraconazole, 5 mg/kg once daily every other week, were all cured by day 56 7 . Another evaluation of the efficacy of systemic antifungal therapy alone reported that cats treated with itraconazole (10 mg/kg orally once daily) cured in 56 days 8 .…”