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Should I apply dog's topical flea treatment before or after grooming?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | French Bulldog | Male | neutered | 1 year and 5 months old

My dog is due for advocate treatment, he doesn't have any fleas. He is also due for grooming. Shall I apply advocate before or after grooming? Thank you

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on April 14th, 2018

Any topical/spot on medications should not be used 48hours before or after shampooing. These medicaitons work through the oils in the coat which are stripped by shampoo hence making them poorly or ineffective

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5Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 6th, 2019

    No his would not be advisable. Topical medications should not be applied less than 48hours before or after washing - they require the oils in the coat in order to be effective. It is also possible to create an overdose if the ingredients in the two products are similar. As long as a reputable spot on is used there should be no need to double treat. Only 5% of a flea burden is adult fleas on the pet at any one time and it is essential to address the remaining 95% with insecticidal household products or exterminiators if the infestation is significant

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