What to do if flea drops do not work on a cat? - briefly
If topical flea treatments fail, switch to a veterinarian‑prescribed oral medication or a monthly collar that targets resistant parasites, and confirm proper application and dosage. Additionally, treat the home environment with a certified flea spray or fogger and wash all bedding to prevent re‑infestation.
What to do if flea drops do not work on a cat? - in detail
If topical flea medication does not eliminate the infestation, begin by confirming proper application. Apply the product to a clean, dry spot at the base of the skull, avoiding the furline. Ensure the cat’s skin is not oily or wet, as this can hinder absorption. Follow the manufacturer’s dosage guidelines precisely; an under‑dose often results in ineffective control.
Next, assess the cat’s health status. Conduct a brief physical exam for signs of skin irritation, hair loss, or secondary infections. If lesions are present, discontinue the current product and consult a veterinarian before introducing another treatment.
Consider alternative control methods:
- Oral flea pills (e.g., nitenpyram, spinosad) – rapid kill, systemic distribution.
- Prescription spot‑on formulations with different active ingredients (e.g., imidacloprid, selamectin) – useful when resistance is suspected.
- Environmental management – vacuum carpets, wash bedding at ≥ 60 °C, treat the home with an insect growth regulator (IGR) spray or fogger.
If resistance is suspected, request a flea identification and susceptibility test from the vet. Switching to a product with a distinct mode of action can break the resistance cycle.
Maintain a strict treatment schedule. Most spot‑on products require re‑application every 30 days; oral tablets may be administered monthly or weekly, depending on the formulation. Keep a calendar to avoid missed doses.
Finally, monitor the cat for at least two weeks after changing the regimen. Count fleas on the animal and in the environment daily; a decline of ≥ 90 % within 48 hours indicates successful intervention. Persistent counts warrant a follow‑up veterinary visit to explore underlying health issues or to adjust the control plan.