My dog’s been on Apoquel but he's still scratching a lot—why isn't it working?

My dog has been on Apoquel for a while now to help with his itching, but I've noticed that he's still scratching quite a bit, especially in the evenings. I thought the medication would offer some relief by now. Is it possible that it's just not effective for him, or could there be another underlying issue that's causing this? What should my next steps be?

Answer

You've been giving your dog Apoquel to manage his itching, but it seems to be less effective, especially during the evenings. It's possible that Apoquel might not be fully addressing the underlying cause of the itching.

  • Consult with a vet to evaluate the effectiveness of Apoquel
  • Consider potential underlying causes, such as allergies or infections
  • Monitor your dog's symptoms and behaviors closely

It can be frustrating when a treatment doesn’t seem to provide the relief you hoped for. Apoquel is typically effective for many dogs; however, it may not work equally for all, or there could be another underlying issue at play, such as an allergy or a skin infection. It's important to have a follow-up consultation to explore these possibilities and ensure your pet is receiving the best care possible.

Book a consultation with a licensed vet at Dial A Vet for just $49 AUD if you're unsure or symptoms are getting worse.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What should I do if Apoquel is not reducing my dog's itching?

    If Apoquel is not effectively managing your dog's itching, it's important to arrange a veterinary consultation. Your vet can help determine whether a dosage adjustment is necessary or if there might be other underlying conditions contributing to the symptoms.

  • Could there be an allergic reaction causing persistent itching?

    Yes, allergies are a common cause of itching in dogs. These can be due to environmental factors, food, or other allergens. Identifying and managing the specific allergens with the help of a vet can significantly improve your dog's comfort and health.

  • Are there other treatments available for itching in dogs besides Apoquel?

    There are indeed other treatment options available, including different medications, dietary changes, or topical therapies. A vet can guide you on the most suitable alternatives based on your dog's specific needs and condition.

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