What should you do if flea drops did not work? - briefly
Switch to an alternative flea control—oral medication, prescription topical, or a different brand—and have a veterinarian assess the pet for resistance or health factors. Treat the home environment concurrently to stop reinfestation.
What should you do if flea drops did not work? - in detail
If topical flea medication does not eliminate the infestation, begin with a thorough assessment of the environment and the animal. Confirm that the product was applied according to the label, that the dosage matched the pet’s weight, and that the pet’s skin was clean and dry at the time of administration. Incorrect application is a frequent cause of failure.
Next, inspect the pet for signs of resistance. Some fleas have developed tolerance to specific active ingredients; in such cases, switching to a different class of insecticide—such as a product containing nitenpyram, spinosad, or a synergistic combination of pyriproxyfen and methoprene—may be necessary. Consult a veterinarian to select an appropriate alternative.
Simultaneously, treat the surroundings. Flea eggs, larvae, and pupae reside in carpets, bedding, and upholstery. Implement the following actions:
- Vacuum all floor surfaces, furniture, and pet bedding; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag.
- Wash all washable items in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Apply a household flea spray or fogger containing an insect growth regulator (IGR) to reach hidden areas; follow the product’s safety guidelines.
- Consider using a flea trap with a light source and sticky board to monitor residual activity.
If the infestation persists after these measures, explore systemic options. Oral medications—such as afoxolaner, fluralaner, or sarolaner—provide rapid kill rates and break the life cycle. Prescription-strength topical treatments with higher concentrations of fipronil or selamectin may also be effective.
Finally, schedule a follow‑up examination with a veterinary professional. They can perform a flea count, assess for secondary skin infections, and adjust the treatment plan. Maintaining a regular preventive regimen—monthly application or oral dose—prevents re‑infestation and reduces the risk of resistance development.