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What flea treatment is best for cats with dermatitis and sores?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 3 years old | 10 lbs

my cat has fleas, and he also has flea allergy dermatitis. i don’t want to put topical treatment on him because of the location of his sores, so i need to give him a flea bath but i don’t know what shampoo is safe to use on cats with dermatitis. i essentially need recommendations for flea shampoo for cats with sensitive skin. does such a thing exist?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 2nd, 2020

If you don't want to apply a topical then an oral flea pill is better. Flea shampoos only work for the moment they are on the cat and they will sting her if she has open sores. Also, there is no residual flea repellant effect. I suggest you: 1. get an oral flea pill (Comfortis) 2. bathe with a soothing mousse like the one I linked below (mousse is easier to use than bathing with shampoo) 3. treat your house for fleas using the product linked below ( https://www.allivet.com/p-2573-comfortis-chewable-tablets-for-dogs-and-cats.aspx ) ( https://www.allivet.com/p-1389-knockout-es-area-treatment.aspx ) ( https://www.allivet.com/p-6679-douxo-calm-mousse-for-dogs-and-cats-68-oz.aspx ) You will probably need a prescription for the Comfortis. You can get one from one of our VETCO vaccination clinics inside Petco stores. You will need to take the cat with you. Here is a link to a schedule of clinics in your area: ( https://www.vetcoclinics.com/services-and-clinics/clinic-locations-and-schedules/?zip=32807 )

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