I treated my cats with Advantage 48 hours ago, but they seem to still be itchy and scratching a lot. Should I be worried that it's not working?

I applied Advantage to my cats two days ago, hoping it would help with their itchiness, but they're still scratching quite a bit. I expected the treatment to take effect by now, and I'm worried it might not be working as it should. Is this normal, or could there be something else irritating them that I should address?

Answer

It can be concerning when your cats continue to scratch after applying a flea treatment like Advantage. It's important to know that it might take a little time for the treatment to fully work.

  • Flea treatments can take up to 24-48 hours for the full effect.
  • Scratching might persist temporarily as the treatment takes action.
  • Look out for other irritants or potential allergies.

It's normal for cats to continue scratching for a short time after applying flea treatment. Flea products like Advantage begin to kill fleas quickly, but external irritation might take a bit longer to subside completely. Ensure that your cats are not exposed to any other irritants, such as certain types of litter or household sprays, which might contribute to their itchiness.

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

  • How long does it usually take for Advantage to work?

    Advantage generally starts working within 12 hours of application, but it may take up to 48 hours to see a noticeable reduction in scratching.

  • What if my cat is still scratching after a couple of days?

    If itching persists beyond a few days, consider checking for other potential allergens or contact a vet for more specific advice.

  • Could something else besides fleas be causing the itchiness?

    Yes, allergies, dry skin, or other irritants could be factors. If symptoms persist, a vet consultation can help determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

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