Sporotrichosis in Cats: Symptoms, Transmission & Treatment

Feline sporotrichosis is a fungal infection caused by Sporothrix species that penetrates into the deeper layers of the skin and can sometimes spread to internal organs. This disease can be transmitted to humans and must be taken seriously.

⚠️ Important: If you suspect your cat may be infected, please call the veterinary hospital before bringing your cat in, so that appropriate infection control measures can be prepared in advance.

Signs to Watch For

• Non-healing nodules or chronic ulcers on the face, ears, legs, or tail
• Open wounds with pus or discharge
• In severe cases: deep tissue destruction, weight loss, or abnormal breathing

How Sporothrix Spreads: The fungus can enter the body through wounds from environmental exposure, scratches or bites from an infected cat — the most important route of transmission to humans, or contact with wound discharge or pus. ⚠️ Children, elderly individuals, and immunocompromised people are at higher risk and should avoid contact with any cat suspected of being infected.

Diagnosis: Your vet will use Cytology (examining wound discharge to look for the characteristic oval or cigar-shaped yeast forms inside inflammatory cells), Culture (to confirm and identify the specific species), and Biopsy or PCR (when further confirmation is needed).

Treatment: Long-term antifungal therapy (months) is required, with regular monitoring for side effects. Do not stop medication on your own — even when the wound appears healed, continued treatment is usually needed.

Home Care: Keep the cat indoors and separated from other pets; wear gloves and long sleeves when handling or caring for the cat; never squeeze or press on wounds; if scratched or bitten, wash the area immediately and thoroughly with soap and water, then seek medical care.

When to Seek Immediate Care: Difficulty breathing in the cat — emergency; rapidly expanding wounds, tissue necrosis, or severe lethargy; if a person is scratched or bitten and comes into contact with wound discharge — seek immediate medical attention.

Contact Thonglor Pet Hospital

Have questions about veterinary care for your pet in Thailand? Contact our team to ask about services, find a suitable branch or arrange an appointment.

If you need English-speaking assistance, please let us know when booking so we can confirm availability.

• Book an appointment: Schedule your visit

• Call us: +66 2 079 9999

• LINE: @jaothonglor

• Find a location: Explore our branches

For information about opening hours, treatment costs and preparing for your visit, see our Frequently Asked Questions.