My cat is still scratching after flea treatment. Is this normal?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on April 8th, 2019

  Smoke could have dermatitis and a skin infection secondary to the fleas. If you have only given one flea treatment and not treated the environment it's also possible that she does still have fleas - cats can be very good at grooming adult fleas off but they still have a chance to bite. You could try treating your home for fleas or you might be able to try another flea medication depending on what you used the first time. If Smoke has dermatitis she will need to be examined by a vet - prescription medications would be necessary.

  

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• Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

  Veterinarian

  Published on January 19th, 2017

  It's so lovely for you to look after this cat and treat him for fleas! When cats have a heavy infestation of fleas, they often develop a flea allergy, which causes them to bite and scratch due to itchiness. To treat this requires a trip to the vet, and you can take him in if you are willing to assume financial responsibility for him. If not, I would give him to the SPCA, who can treat him and find a home for him.

  

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• Answered By Ana M, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on April 17th, 2018

  Thank you for submitting your question regarding Lexus. It sounds like she is itchy as she is licking the affected area. Allergies are a common cause of itching in a cat. It can be due to something in her diet, something in the environment (especially if she has access outdoors) or even fleas. If a cat is allergic to fleas, the skin will stay itchy with a bite as infrequent as every 3 weeks. So you may never see an actual flea. If she will tolerate it, you can try bathing her with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner such as an oatmeal or fatty acid based formula. She will likely need to see her veterinarian though for medication to stop the itching and possibly an antibiotic to heal her skin. In the meantime, you can to prevent her from licking with an E-collar. I hope this information helps you!

  

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• Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on August 3rd, 2017

  It sounds like your cat has a skin infection, most likely caused by allergies or fleas. The allergies can be from a protein in her food or to something in the environment, like grasses, pollens, dust, etc. The allergies cause a breakdown in the skin barrier and make the cat very itchy. The excessive itching and licking cause the skin infection. I would recommend taking Shasta in to see the vet so she can be started on some antibiotics to help clear up the skin and get on a good flea control. You may also ask about a medicated shampoo, these can help clear up the skin more quickly. I would also recommend discussing with your vet some options for medication to help control the allergy symptoms like Atopica or a course of steroids.

  

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