What organism most commonly causes dermatophytosis in cats?

What organism most commonly causes dermatophytosis in cats?

• A. Microsporum gypseum
• B. Trichophyton mentagrophytes
• C. Microsporum canis
• D. Epidermophyton floccosum

Answer: (C)

Dermatophytosis in cats is most commonly caused by Microsporum canis. This fungus is well adapted to keratinized tissues (skin, hair, nails) and is shed readily by infected cats, creating environmental contamination that facilitates transmission to other cats and even to humans. In feline cases, M. canis accounts for the majority of infections, producing the typical ringworm–like lesions on the face, ears, and paws. Other dermatophytes can infect cats, but they are far less common in this species; Epidermophyton floccosum is more associated with humans and not a typical feline pathogen. Thus, Microsporum canis is the best answer.

Dermatophytosis in cats is most commonly caused by Microsporum canis. This fungus is well adapted to keratinized tissues (skin, hair, nails) and is shed readily by infected cats, creating environmental contamination that facilitates transmission to other cats and even to humans. In feline cases, M. canis accounts for the majority of infections, producing the typical ringworm–like lesions on the face, ears, and paws. Other dermatophytes can infect cats, but they are far less common in this species; Epidermophyton floccosum is more associated with humans and not a typical feline pathogen. Thus, Microsporum canis is the best answer.