Effects of Ringworm in Cattle

Effects of Ringworm in Cattle7 August 2025

Effects of Ringworm in Cattle

By Dr Trywell Muzerengi

Ringworm in cattle — medically referred to as Dermatophytosis — is a contagious fungal skin infection caused by dermatophytes, and not actual worms, despite its misleading name It primarily affects young calves, especially during the cold winter months when cattle are housed in crowded, poorly ventilated environments 🦠 Causative Agent

The main culprit in cattle is the fungus Trichophyton verrucosum, which specifically targets bovines

Ringworm is highly contagious and can spread through:

Direct contact with infected animals

Contaminated objects, including brushes, halters, and fences

Environmental spores, which can survive for months

Poor barn conditions, especially overcrowding and lack of ventilation

👀 Clinical Signs

Farmers should look out for:

Circular, greyish-white crusty lesions

Source: ZimEye