Why Does My Cat Keep Scratching After Flea Treatment, and How to Stop the Itching

It can be alarming when your furry feline friend continues to scratch herself, even after you've treated her for fleas. This article explores the reasons behind your cat's persistent scratching and provides actionable steps to alleviate the itch and bring relief to your beloved pet.

Understanding the Reasons for Persistent Scratching

If your cat is still scratching after receiving treatment for fleas with a product like Advantage II, there could be several underlying causes. One common reason is that the scratching may not be due to fleas at all, but rather a different issue such as dry skin or a dietary problem.
Sometimes, the scratching could be caused by an allergy or a skin rash. These conditions can persist after flea treatment, as the flea is just one of the possible allergens your cat may be reacting to. It's crucial to take your cat to the vet for a thorough examination to identify the root cause.

Steps to Take When Your Cat Continues to Scratch

Consult Your VETERINARIAN

The initial step should always be to consult with your veterinarian. They can conduct a comprehensive examination and possibly recommend specific measures to address the issue. Don’t hesitate to bring any changes in your cat's environment or diet to the vet’s attention. They may suggest using an oil cap for a small period if it’s due to dry skin, but a specific solution would come from professional advice.

Eliminating Allergens and Changing Diet

Begin by switching to a more natural food source. Many natural cat food brands use specific protein sources without fillers. Brands like Smalls are popular for their all-natural approach. You might also consider changing the cat’s food entirely to see if the scratching diminishes.

Check your home for allergens that might be affecting your cat, such as new litter, plants, bedding, or household products. Try to identify any recent changes in the environment that might be contributing to the issue. It’s also important to observe if your cat has ever not shown signs of scratching before. If so, consider what might have changed in the environment that could impact your cat’s health.

Environmental and Living Conditions

Your cat's living conditions and environment can profoundly impact its health. If you have other pets in the house, they too could be contributing to the problem. Additionally, flea infestations in your home might be causing your cat to scratch after treatment. Make sure to also treat the environment with a flea spray to eliminate fleas not only on your cat but also in your home.

If you face financial constraints, many animal shelters and ASPCA facilities offer lower-cost services. However, these services often come with long wait times, making regular vet visits challenging. Ultimately, it's important to ensure your cat gets the necessary treatment to alleviate its discomfort, rather than masking the symptoms with temporary solutions.

Signs and Symptoms

Keep an eye on any signs of an allergic reaction, such as redness, swelling, or patches of hair loss. If your cat’s scratching is accompanied by these symptoms, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Conclusion

Your cat’s health is of paramount importance, and addressing the underlying cause of its scratching is crucial. By closely monitoring your cat’s health and working closely with your veterinarian, you can help your feline friend find relief and recover from its discomfort.