Ringworm is a highly contagious fungal skin disease that mainly affects young cattle. It occurs regularly on many farms and can not only impair animal welfare but also have economic consequences. We explain how ringworm develops, what conditions favor its growth, and how the fungus can be effectively and sustainably controlled with hypochlorous acid.

What is calf ringworm?

Ringworm (trichophytosis) is a skin infection caused by filamentous fungi that manifests itself in circular, hairless, and scaly patches, usually on the head, neck, or around the eyes. The disease is generally easy to identify, but in case of doubt, laboratory analysis can be used for clarification. The disease is highly contagious and can spread quickly within a herd. It is mainly transmitted through direct contact with animals, but also indirectly via contaminated objects such as drinking buckets, calf brushes, stable walls, or the clothing and hands of caregivers. Young animals with immature immune systems are particularly at risk. Humans can also become infected, which is why special care must be taken when handling affected animals.

Favorable conditions

Ringworm occurs mainly in the first months of life, when the animals’ immune systems are not yet fully developed.

The following factors increase the risk:


• Inadequate ventilation and high humidity
• Poor stable hygiene
• Stress caused by relocation or change of feed
• Lack of disinfection of drinking troughs, calf huts, and work materials

Good to know:
Adult cows are much less likely to develop ringworm, as they have already built up a certain immunity to the pathogens through previous infections or vaccinations.

Consequences for animals and farms

The skin changes themselves are usually not painful for the animals, but they weaken their immune system and make them more susceptible to other diseases.

Other possible consequences include:


• Increased risk of infection within the herd
• Additional care and longer rearing times
• Possible restrictions on the sale of animals
• Reduced leather quality due to scarring
• Risk of transmission to employees

What helps against calf ringworm?

Early detection and targeted action are crucial.

The most important measures are:


• Isolate affected animals to prevent spread
• Improve stable hygiene by regularly cleaning and disinfecting boxes, tools, and contact surfaces
• Thoroughly disinfect equipment such as calf pens, feeding buckets, and brushes
• Skin care for animals with suitable antifungal agents
• Vaccination is possible, either prophylactically or in already infected animals to shorten the duration of the disease

Sustainable solution with hypochlorous acid

Before (left) and after (right) several applications of Hydroliq ANIMAL

Hydroliq disinfection solutions are based on HOCl and offer effective and skin-friendly disinfection. Hypochlorous acid is highly effective against fungi, bacteria, spores, and viruses. It is ideal for many areas in the stable as well as for direct application to animals and the treatment of affected skin areas. Tests have shown that regular direct application of Hydroliq ANIMAL to animals achieves rapid improvement.

Conclusion

In many cases, ringworm can be prevented with consistent hygiene and targeted disinfection. Hydroliq ANIMAL helps farmers effectively control fungal infections and protect the health of their calves in the long term.

Get in touch at info@hydroliq.com | 041 259 90 00 or contact your sales representative directly for a no-obligation consultation.