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Why is my dog still itching and has sores after flea treatment?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 2 years and 4 months old | 11 lbs

Snaccs Just got over having fleas and was plased on comfortis. He's still itching. To the point of having these sores on his "knees" and around he genitals. Is this a reaction to the fleas or the medication. He want stop licking and biting himself except to eat and sleep. The pictures aren't the best.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 31st, 2018

Hello. Snaccs may be suffering a delayed hypersensitivity reaction to the fleas & this can last for quite some time after the fleas are gone. It is also possible that he has allergies or sensitivities to other potential allergens such as dust & pollens. I would recommend bathing him in a mild shampoo, either oatmeal based or one that has Pramoxine or 1% hydrocortisone in it. You can bathe him 2-3 times a week using cool water. Let him soak for 5-10 minutes & make sure you get all the soap out of his coat. If he continues to be itchy, you will need to see your veterinarian for other recommendations including anti-allergy medications such as Apoquel or Cytopoint, or allergy testing to see what else may be bothering him. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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