Ringworm is caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes that feed on dead skin and hair cells. Ringworm causes a round, red skin lesion with a ring of scales. Ringworm vaccines are approved only for cats, not for dogs.
Vaccine Development
Fort Dodge released a ringworm vaccine for cats in 1994, but it is generally not recommended as the first course of treatment for most situations involving cats.
Effectiveness
According to VetInfo.com, the ringworm vaccine is not particularly effective. It can suppress symptoms in a cat with an active infection but will probably not prevent the infection itself.
Vaccinated Cats as Carriers
Because cats that have received the ringworm vaccine may have an infection without obvious symptoms, they are less likely to get treated and more likely to become carriers, passing on the infection.
Vaccine as a Supplement
Many vets do not use the ringworm vaccine at all in their practices. When it is used, it is best used in conjunction with conventional treatments.
Current Recommended Use
Experts at the Mar Vista Animal Medical Center in Los Angeles state the best use of the vaccine is to vaccinate all the cats in a multiple-cat, multiple-infection situation.
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