Ringworm is a dermatophyte infection caused by fungus. Mange is a dermal disease caused by mites. Mites live at the base of the hair follicle and cause hair loss and flaking. The signs of these diseases can be very similar but treatment is very different. Cats with dermal problems need to be examined by a veterinarian for diagnostic tests--a skin scrape will look for mites and a fungal culture and black light screen (Wood's lamp) will test for ringworm.
Ringworm and certain type of mites can be zoonotic (spread to humans) so identification and treatment is important.
Ringworm and certain type of mites can be zoonotic (spread to humans) so identification and treatment is important.