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My dog still scratches after flea treatment. Should I try Atopica?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | 2 years and 4 months old | 10 lbs

My 2 year old itches alot, he is rid of fleas I give him treatment for that but he still scratches and knaws at his skin. Is Atopica good to give to him to treat this problem? I give him children's Benadryl but it doesn't help him.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on July 15th, 2017

If the itching has an allergic component, Atoica may help. You should have Titus examined by your veterinarian to diagnose the underlying cause. It could be parasites (mites or fleas). Even one flea bite n a sensitive dog can cause a severe reaction. It may also be dry skin, infection (bacterial or fungal), food sensitivities or an endocrine imbalance. Discuss allergy testing, hydrolyzed diets and food elimination trials with your vet. A different antihistamine may be more effective. In the meantime, place an e-collar on Titus to prevent excessive licking or chewing. A tee shirt or onesie may prevent scratching.

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    This looks like a flea allergy. Either the flea product isn't working, or he is still itching from the first fleas he was exposed to. When pets have flea allergies, it isn't enough just to get rid of the fleas, you also have to treat the itch at the same time, because the itch has been wound up causing what we call an "itch cascade". Atopica is one of the medications that can be used to help stop the itch. However, my first line of treatment for flea allergy dermatitis is a product called Apoquel, which is a bit cheaper and also does not cause immune suppression, like Atopica can. Both medications should be monitored and used at the discretion of your pets veterinarian. A topical aloe based or oatmeal based shampoo can also provide some topical relief for him. Best wishes with Titus and his skin. I hope everything resolves soon. Take care.

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