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Cat ripping fur from fleas. What to do until next flea medicine?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 1 year and 4 months old | 12 lbs

Mylo started ripping his fur out. Mostly his back legs and belly area. He went to the vet and had live fleas so he was given a topical medicine and Capstar pill. My other cat also received this. He seemed better for at least a few days, but the started ripping his fur out again. He still has live fleas on him but I can't give him the flea medicine again until August 5th. I don't know what to do other than put a cone on him, but that makes his depressed. Please help!!

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Emily, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 18th, 2017

You can contact your veterinarian about giving him daily Capstar as well as discuss if he could have a secondary bacterial skin infection from scratching. Mylo may need antibiotics if he has a skin infection. Sometimes a topical sha,poo helps but with recent flea medication applied there is a waiting period before any bathing should be done.

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    Answered By Mirissa Duncil, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hi there. You can repeat capstar if your animals have fleas. You will likely also have to rid your home of fleas if they are indoors because things like carpet, rugs, and furniture with cloth can act as reservoirs for these parasite and reinfect your pet. I hope this helps until august! I'd try a different preventative like bravecto for cats or Advantage multi.

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