Which dermatophyte infection is most commonly found in cats?

Microsporum canis is the most commonly found dermatophyte infection in cats. This fungus is particularly significant in feline dermatology due to its prevalence and its ability to be transmitted to humans and other animals, leading to a broader public health consideration. Microsporum canis primarily affects the skin, hair, and claws, causing clinical signs such as hair loss, crusting, and inflammation.

The reason for the prominence of Microsporum canis in cats is largely due to the species' natural host affinity, as this dermatophyte thrives in the hair shafts of cats and is often found on their skin. As a result, cats serve as a primary reservoir for this organism, making it the most common dermatophyte infection in this species.

In contrast, while Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Microsporum gypseum can also cause dermatophyte infections, they are less commonly associated with feline cases specifically. Epidermophyton floccosum, on the other hand, is primarily a pathogen of humans and rarely infects cats or dogs, making it an unlikely candidate in this context.