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Why is my dog still itching on Apoquel & has bloody diarrhea/lethargy?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 2 years and 5 months old | 9 lbs

My little terrier mixed breed has been on Apoquel for some time. It is gradually not working for her anymore. Chewing her skin on her abdomen, legs and paws. Has developed a wart on the inside of her ear (near the top). This morning I discovered that she had bloody, runny stools during the night. I have been giving her pureed chicken to calm her gut down, and no Appoquel. She is eating okay, but is lethargic.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on June 17th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Apoquel will not work if the dog has a skin infection. I recommend anytime that the apoquel has stopped working that the dog be taken to the Vet for an exam to check for a bacterial or yeast infection. Most dogs with allergies need to be on a special diet, apoquel or cytopoint, an antihistamine and an Omega 3 supplement to keep the dog comfortable, but flare ups are bound to happen, we just hope less frequently. As for the bloody diarrhea, it is likely unrelated to her skin and the apoquel but it is fine that you stopped it. Especially if it wasn't working. The blood indicated inflammation in the colon. Common causes of diarrhea are: intestinal parasites, viral or bacterial infections, dietary indiscretion, pancreatitis, food allergy/intolerance, reaction to a new food/treat/table food. If the diarrhea is bad I would fast her for 12-24 hours to rest her GI tract then start feeding a bland diet of boiled chicken or hamburger with rice. Feed 1 cup per 20 lbs per day until 2 normal stools. I wish you the best!

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