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My dog has ITP. Could infection or Advantix be causing low platelets?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | 11 years and 7 months old

Hello, my active health 11 yr old female healer mix was diagnosed with ITP. She displayed lethargy and weakness. The vet is thinking it's primary as she's had tests (Lepto, HE, Her, Anapl, Lynn, urinalysis) & xrays. Now on Prednisone & melatonin. Could there still be underlying infec? Could canine advanitx II be a factor? I gave this to her 1 week before not realizing she'd lost weight. Any further test recommendations?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 6th, 2017

Hello and thank you for your post! It sounds like your vet has ruled out quite a bit already with diagnostics. ITP can be frustrating to treat. I do not think the canine advantix would be the cause, however, I suppose it is in the realm of possibilities. Sometimes certain drugs can cause this. Certain antibiotics. A full history of medications prior to the episode of ITP should be considered. If the prednisone and melatonin are not working, your vet may consider other immunosuppressing medications such as azathioprine and cyclosporine. I would keep these platelets checked on a regular basis to ensure they are coming up so that your vet can add on additional medications if needed. If there is no improvement you could always seek a referral to an internal medicine specialist as well. Hope Lacy gets better! If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact me with any further questions. I am also available via consultation.

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