Ketoconazole for treatment of dermatophytosis in cats.

Twelve cats with generalized dermatophytosis were treated with ketoconazole (10 mg/kg of body weight, PO, with food, q 24 h). This treatment was successful in 8 cats, with resolution of lesions and negative findings on mycologic evaluation after 2 to 10 weeks (median duration, 6 weeks). One additional cat failed to improve initially, but complete resolution was achieved after the dosage of ketoconazole was doubled. Adverse effects in 3 cats included anorexia, weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhea.