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Question:

Safe flea med options for 15 YO dog w kidney & liver issues

I'm really in need of some advice from fellow pet owners. My 15-year-old dog, Max, who means the absolute world to me, has been diagnosed with kidney and liver issues. The vet says we need to be super careful with any meds he takes, but the fleas are becoming unbearable. It's such a juggle trying to keep him comfortable without risking his health even further. I feel like I've tried everything, but I'm worried about which flea treatments are safe given his condition. I'm terrified of accidentally giving him something that could harm his already delicate systems. Has anyone else been in a similar situation, and if so, what worked for you? Any specific treatments or tips would be so appreciated. I just want to make sure I'm doing the best for him. Thank you in advance for any help you can offer.

Answer:

Hello there! I understand your concern about finding a safe flea treatment for your senior dog. When a dog has kidney and liver issues, we need to be particularly cautious with medications, including flea preventatives, as these organs are crucial for processing and eliminating drugs from the body.



For flea control, topical treatments or oral medications could be problematic since they often pass through the bloodstream and might put additional stress on your dog's liver and kidneys. However, there are some safer alternatives you can consider.



Start by keeping your dog's environment as flea-free as possible. Regularly wash bedding and vacuum carpets and furniture. You can also use natural repellents, like a flea comb, to manually remove fleas from your dog's coat. Ensure he's in a clean environment where fleas are less likely to thrive.



Watch out for signs of a worsening health condition, such as lethargy, decreased appetite, or vomiting, which could indicate that his liver or kidney issues are being aggravated.



For a tailored approach, I recommend scheduling a video consult on Dial A Vet. This way, we can discuss specifics about your dog's health and find the optimal flea management strategy that will help keep him comfortable and safe without overburdening his liver and kidneys.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 20, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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