Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

My dog has a hot spot after flea treatment, what should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 6 years and 7 months old | 75 lbs

I just treated my dog with Comfortis for a flea infestation we did not recognize.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on June 30th, 2022

Thank you for sending the additional information to our customer service email address! Yes, I agree with your suspicion that Kona likely has a hot spot. You can try to manage this area by first clipping the fur from the the affected area, as air flow to the area is important. Antiseptic sprays, like Vetericyn (https://vetericyn.com/product/vetericyn-plus-all-animal-wound-and-skin-care/?attribute_size=3oz), can work wonders when used a few times per day. One of the most important aspects of hot spot treatment is to prevent Kona from licking at this area. It may involve some tough love, but keep an e-collar (cone) on her until this area has fully resolved. Most hot spots show pretty significant improvement within a week or so. However, if it isn't improving in a week or gets worse at any point, Kona will need to visit her vet. While most hot spots can be treated with topical treatments, like the Vetericyn spray, some require courses of antibiotics and steroids. I hope this helps and that she's on the mend soon!

Vote icon

3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello there! Unfortunately I think your question was cut off, as the only information I received in your post was "I just treated my dog with Comfortis for a flea infestation we did not recognize." Due to this, I'm not sure what your question is, and I do ask that you please post again with a question so we can help you. That being said, I do see there is a picture attached of Kona, and it looks like she has a skin problem. The area in the picture looks moist and red, and I'm wondering if she has a hot spot. Based on the picture, I do think that area needs to be checked out by a vet, and I recommend you getting her an appointment with her vet for that. I hope this helps!

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored