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My cat is still scratching after flea treatment. Is this normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Bombay | Male | neutered

Put flea treatment on my cats yesterday advocate and today they still scratching is this normal

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 16th, 2018

If they were scratching due to fleas then it is not unusual they are still itching. The bites from the fleas will not go away overnight (imagine if you had mosquito bites, these persist for quite a time after the bite occurs) and often the die off of fleas will cause increased itching for a day or two. If the itching is severe your vet may prescribe medication to help, or if they are still itching excessively in a few days, seek veterinary care.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 8th, 2019

    Smoke could have dermatitis and a skin infection secondary to the fleas. If you have only given one flea treatment and not treated the environment it's also possible that she does still have fleas - cats can be very good at grooming adult fleas off but they still have a chance to bite. You could try treating your home for fleas or you might be able to try another flea medication depending on what you used the first time. If Smoke has dermatitis she will need to be examined by a vet - prescription medications would be necessary.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 19th, 2017

    It's so lovely for you to look after this cat and treat him for fleas! When cats have a heavy infestation of fleas, they often develop a flea allergy, which causes them to bite and scratch due to itchiness. To treat this requires a trip to the vet, and you can take him in if you are willing to assume financial responsibility for him. If not, I would give him to the SPCA, who can treat him and find a home for him.

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