My dog is still scratching after cetirizine. Why isn't it working?

You should see an improvement of symptoms within a few hours of administration. If not, you can discuss a different antihistamine, OTC or prescription, with your veterinarian. Just as in people, different antihistamines may be more effective in different dogs. Allergies can be frustrating to diagnose, so discuss allergy testing, hydrolyzed diets and food elimination trials with your veterinarian in addition to antihistamine use.

Legally, we are prohibited from providing doses, even for OTC medications, in the absence of a physical exam and VPCR ( Veterinarian-Patient-Client Relationship). A true and valid VPCR cannot be established in an online forum. Additionally, the itching and scratching may not be due to allergies, in which case the cetirizine will be ineffective. Ideally, Suki should be seen by your veterinarian to diagnose the underlying cause. In the meantime, place an e-collar (cone) on her to prevent licking or chewing. Confirm she is on a flea preventive and check her over for any stray fleas. Discuss allergy testing, food elimination trials and hydrolyzed diets with the vet.

In general, antihistamines are not very effective in dogs for itching - so unfortunately, it doesn't surprise me that you aren't seeing much effect with Piriton. You could certainly talk to Lily's veterinarian about trying a different antihistamine such as hydroxizine or diphenhydramine, as some dogs may respond a bit better to a different drug.

It should begin to work within a couple hours of administration. The half life allows for once daily dosing in cats. That said, not all antihistamines are effective in every cat. You must find the one that is most effective for your cat.

Yes, you can give cetirizine as needed. Be aware that if you use it constantly there is a chance he will become tolerant to it and will no longer work. It should also not be used in animals that have any underlying kidney or liver disease. Please review this article on the medication in regards to dosing, side effects, etc. ( https://www.petcoach.co/pet-medication/cetirizine/ )

Hi and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Cetirizine is an antihistamine that can be used to help lessen seasonal allergy symptoms. It is sometimes used in dogs with some efficacy- works for some dogs and not so well for others. Please be sure to obtain all dosing information for this drug from Barney's veterinarian. I hope this helps!

Hello. While Apoquel has been an absolutely wonderful addition to our ability to help allergic dogs, it is not 100% effective all the time & in every pet. I have had to add medications to the really tough cases, including using the injectable Cytopoint, adding antihistamines, or even very low doses of glucocorticoids. Talk to your vet to see what might be the next step for helping Zelda. You might also consider seeing a veterinary dermatologist to see what exactly she might be allergic to & if a desensitization protocol would be helpful. Good luck & thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.