Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why is my cat still scratching with scabs despite flea treatment?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 3 years and 8 months old | 10 lbs

My cat wont quit scratching. She has crusty scabs on her neck around her ears and on her back next to her tail. I have treated her for fleas with a topical applied to the back of neck. I have uses this for seberal months. Could this be the issue?. If so, what can i use to help her ? I tried to take a picture but sbe wont quit scratching.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Sarah Derksen, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 30th, 2017

Poor Ruby. It could be something else. Itching ca be caused by allergies, food sensitivity, infections, parasites, mites, immune mediated skin conditions, and more. I'd get her to your veterinarian to be checked and have some skin testing done, as well as get some relief for itching.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 16th, 2017

    It possible that Wolfy developed a flea allergy from being infested with fleas, and that could be causing the continuing scratching. I would put an Ecollar on her to protect her head and neck from scratching at it. You can get one from the pet store or you can make one. You can try giving Wolfy an oatmeal bath, which will temporarily relieve the itching, and then I would have her seen by a vet in the morning. The vet can diagnose if she does have a flea allergy, and can give her medication such as a steroid to help stop the itching.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet keeps scratching its ear. What's causing this problem?
Is your pet scratching their ear often? A certified Petco veterinarian explains common causes like otitis or infection and how to identify the problem.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?
Worried about your pet degu's white pustule? A certified vet discusses this potential skin infection, explains why not to pop it, and guides your next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet's ear mite treatment isn't working. What else could it be?
Pet still itching after treatment? A Petco vet clarifies it may not be ear mites. Discover effective solutions like Revolution or consulting an exotic vet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored