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Why do my cats still have fleas and skin issues after treatment?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Turkish Angora | Male | neutered | 9 lbs

I have two dogs that go outside. They are treated by a vet and have no fleas. My 2 cats already had fleas, which I have treated for many months with Advantage II. Did not help cats. One of my cats has flaking skin and sores and the other is not as badly infected. At my wits end. What do I do?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on January 30th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor kitties! Flea allergy can be so stressful to deal with. The main thing is getting rid of fleas effectively as that is the inciting cause driving the itchiness resulting in scratching and self-traumatic lesions like that. If she is already on a flea preventative right at this time, then you could consider switching to a different product. There are many great product in the market such as Frontline and Bravecto, among others. Also, you can use a product called Capstar which can help a lot of fleas at once and that can be administered along with other flea medications. Also, it is important to vacuum the house and all things that have contact with them frequently. Try this for 1-3 months and if does not make a difference, they may have another type of allergy such as a food allergy or environmental allergy. As for the wounds, try to keep the areas clean and have them evaluated by your veterinarian to start them on antibiotics. Good luck and thanks for letting us take care of you today!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 29th, 2017

    These signs (localized multifocal spots of dermatitis) are suggesting that she has flea allergy dermatitis; basically her skin overreacts to flea bites/saliva. A part from the flea treatment (if you still see fleas on her it may be the case to change product), anti-allergic medications are needed. Steroids usually works well in combination with the flea treatment to resolve itch. A check up would be ideal to start treating it properly. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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