Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

I shampooed my cat after flea treatment. Did it ruin the effects?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Russian Blue | Male | neutered | 7 years and 11 months old | 12 lbs

My cat Brian has fleas. I feel bad as I didn’t realise until he was itching constantly. I have used frontline on him but then 4 hours later i used a foam cat shampoo (one that doesn’t wash out) just to make him feel good. Have I ruined the effects of the flea treatment working? If so, what should I do and how long should I wait to reapply? His fur is awful full of black dots I’m really upset. Thanks.

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

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

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 16th, 2019

Poor guy. There is a chance the foam shampoo could deactivate the product. Check him over tomorrow and if you are still seeing fleas or if you just want to be sure, you can give him a Capstar (Nitenpyram) pill from your local vet or pet store. This will kill all the fleas off him instantly. It can also be given daily if needed, since it is not a preventative but just an emergency flea ridder and can be given in conjunction with preventatives. Then after 2 weeks have gone by you are good to apply an additional flea preventative (frontline, revolution) on Brian if fleas are still persistent. I would recommend Revolution in cats over Frontline b/c it is more effective. : ) I would also recommend treating your home with a flea fogger purchased from Lowe's or Home Depot. It is important to treat both the pet and the environment in cases of fleas, b/c they multiply rapidly. Best of luck with Brian and I hope that you rid him of his flea issues soon! Take care.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet keeps scratching its ear. What's causing this problem?
Is your pet scratching their ear often? A certified Petco veterinarian explains common causes like otitis or infection and how to identify the problem.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?
Worried about your pet degu's white pustule? A certified vet discusses this potential skin infection, explains why not to pop it, and guides your next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has a skin issue. Is it mites or ringworm? What's the treatment?
Concerned about Spiky's unknown condition? A certified veterinarian discusses potential mite infestation or ringworm, stressing professional diagnosis and treatment.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet's ear mite treatment isn't working. What else could it be?
Pet still itching after treatment? A Petco vet clarifies it may not be ear mites. Discover effective solutions like Revolution or consulting an exotic vet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored