🐕 Frontline Plus for Dogs Side Effects: What You Need to Know

Frontline Plus is one of the most trusted flea and tick treatments for dogs, but like any medication, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. While it’s generally safe and effective, some dogs may experience reactions after application. Understanding what to expect and how to manage any side effects is key to keeping your dog healthy and comfortable.

Key Takeaways: Quick Answers About Frontline Plus Side Effects

• What are the most common side effects of Frontline Plus? 🐾 Mild skin irritation at the application site is the most frequently reported side effect.
• Are severe reactions common? ⚠️ No, severe reactions like vomiting or lethargy are rare, but they can occur in sensitive dogs.
• How can I prevent side effects? 🩺 Apply Frontline Plus as directed, and monitor your dog for any unusual behavior or symptoms after application.
• What should I do if my dog has a reaction? 🚨 Contact your vet immediately if you notice any signs of distress, such as severe itching, vomiting, or changes in behavior.
• Is Frontline Plus safe for all dogs? ✅ Frontline Plus is safe for most dogs, but it’s important to consult your vet if your dog has a history of skin sensitivities or other health concerns.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Frontline Plus for Dogs? 🐾 Mild Reactions

The most common side effects of Frontline Plus are generally mild and typically involve skin reactions at the application site. These may include:

• Temporary redness or irritation at the spot where the treatment was applied.
• Itching or scratching around the application area, especially within the first 24 to 48 hours after use.
• Hair loss at the application site in rare cases.

These side effects are usually mild and resolve on their own within a few days. However, if the irritation persists for longer than a week, it’s a good idea to consult your vet.

Side Effect	Severity	💡 Tip
Skin irritation	Mild	Monitor for a few days, keep the area clean 🧴
Itching or scratching	Mild	Ensure your dog doesn’t lick or scratch the area excessively 🚫
Hair loss	Rare	Contact your vet if it persists beyond a week 🩺

💡 Tip: If your dog tends to have sensitive skin, ask your vet if Frontline Plus is the best option. They might suggest applying the treatment to a slightly different area to avoid irritation or trying a sensitive skin formula.

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Are Severe Reactions to Frontline Plus Common? ⚠️ Rare But Possible

Severe reactions to Frontline Plus are rare, but they can occur, particularly in dogs with underlying health issues or sensitivities to topical medications. Possible severe side effects may include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Seizures (extremely rare)
• Excessive drooling or salivation

If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek veterinary advice immediately. In rare cases, dogs may have an allergic reaction to the active ingredients—fipronil and S-methoprene—resulting in more serious side effects like seizures or difficulty breathing.

Severe Reaction	Likelihood	💡 Tip
Vomiting or diarrhea	Rare	Contact your vet immediately if symptoms occur 🚨
Lethargy or weakness	Rare	Keep your dog calm and hydrated 💧
Seizures	Extremely rare	Seek emergency vet care right away 🏥

💡 Tip: If your dog has a history of seizures or other neurological issues, talk to your vet before using Frontline Plus, as they may recommend an alternative flea and tick treatment.

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How Can I Prevent Side Effects from Frontline Plus? 🩺 Proper Application is Key

To minimize the risk of side effects, it’s important to apply Frontline Plus correctly and follow these best practices:

• Apply to the right area: Ensure the product is applied between your dog’s shoulder blades, directly onto the skin. This prevents your dog from licking the treatment off, which can cause stomach upset.
• Avoid bathing your dog for at least 48 hours before and after application to ensure the treatment is fully absorbed and effective.
• Monitor your dog closely for the first 24 to 48 hours after applying the treatment to catch any signs of a reaction early on.

If your dog has sensitive skin or a history of allergic reactions, discuss with your vet whether Frontline Plus is the best option. They may recommend trying it in smaller doses or applying it to a less sensitive area of the body.

Preventive Step	How It Helps	💡 Tip
Apply between shoulder blades	Reduces the chance of ingestion	Ensure direct contact with the skin 💧
Avoid bathing before/after	Allows full absorption	Wait 48 hours before bathing 🧼
Monitor after application	Detects reactions early	Watch for any unusual behavior 👀

💡 Tip: If your dog is prone to licking themselves, consider using a cone for the first few hours after applying Frontline Plus to prevent them from accidentally ingesting the treatment.

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What Should I Do If My Dog Has a Reaction to Frontline Plus? 🚨 When to Contact the Vet

If your dog exhibits any signs of distress after using Frontline Plus, such as vomiting, excessive itching, or lethargy, it’s crucial to contact your vet immediately. Here’s a quick guide on what steps to take:

• Mild skin irritation: Clean the area with mild soap and water. Avoid applying any additional products unless recommended by your vet.
• Vomiting or diarrhea: Make sure your dog stays hydrated. If symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, seek veterinary advice.
• Severe reactions (e.g., seizures or difficulty breathing): Take your dog to an emergency vet immediately for evaluation.

Your vet may suggest discontinuing the use of Frontline Plus and switching to an alternative flea and tick treatment that is better suited to your dog’s needs.

Reaction Type	Action to Take	💡 Tip
Mild skin irritation	Clean the area and monitor	Use a gentle cleanser like pet-safe soap 🧼
Vomiting or diarrhea	Keep hydrated, consult vet	Offer small amounts of water and monitor 🩺
Severe reactions	Emergency vet visit required	Act quickly and bring the product packaging 📦

💡 Tip: Always keep the product packaging handy when visiting the vet, as it will provide important information about the ingredients and dosage your dog received.

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Is Frontline Plus Safe for All Dogs? ✅ Generally Yes, But Consult Your Vet

Frontline Plus is considered safe for most dogs, but there are certain factors to consider:

• Age and weight: Frontline Plus is safe for dogs as young as 8 weeks and over 5 pounds. Make sure to choose the correct dosage based on your dog’s weight to avoid any issues.
• Health conditions: If your dog has pre-existing health issues, such as epilepsy or neurological disorders, it’s important to consult your vet before using Frontline Plus.
• Pregnant or nursing dogs: Frontline Plus is generally considered safe for pregnant or lactating dogs, but again, it’s best to check with your vet to be sure.

In general, Frontline Plus is a widely trusted product with a strong safety profile, but as with any medication, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

💡 Tip: Always weigh your dog before applying any flea treatment to ensure the correct dose is being used. This reduces the risk of overdosing and potential side effects.

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Quick Recap: Frontline Plus Side Effects

• Common side effects: Mild skin irritation, itching, and temporary hair loss at the application site.
• Rare side effects: Vomiting, lethargy, seizures (very rare).
• Prevention tips: Apply the product correctly and monitor your dog after treatment.
• When to contact your vet: If you notice severe reactions like vomiting, lethargy, or seizures.

By following these guidelines and working closely with your vet, you can confidently protect your dog from fleas and ticks with Frontline Plus while minimizing the risk of side effects. 🐕💙

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Comment 1: “What should I do if my dog starts itching excessively after applying Frontline Plus?”

If your dog is experiencing excessive itching after applying Frontline Plus, the first step is to assess the severity of the reaction. Mild itching at the application site is relatively common and usually resolves on its own within a day or two. Here’s how to handle it:

1. Monitor the Area: Check the application site for redness or irritation. If your dog is scratching the area frequently, it could be a mild skin reaction to the treatment.
2. Prevent Over-scratching: If the itching persists, gently clean the area with mild soap and water to remove any residue and prevent further irritation. You can also distract your dog with toys or activities to prevent over-scratching.
3. Keep the Area Dry: Ensure the area stays dry, and avoid giving your dog a bath for at least 48 hours after application, as water can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.
4. Contact Your Vet: If the itching continues for more than 48 hours, or if your dog shows signs of distress—like restlessness or whining—consult your veterinarian. They may recommend a topical treatment to soothe the skin or suggest an alternative flea and tick solution if your dog has sensitive skin.

💡 Tip: To minimize irritation, ensure that Frontline Plus is applied directly onto the skin, not just the fur. This helps the medication absorb properly and reduces the risk of excessive itching.

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Comment 2: “Can Frontline Plus cause diarrhea in dogs?”

Diarrhea is a rare side effect of Frontline Plus, but it can happen, particularly if your dog accidentally ingests the product by licking the application site before it fully absorbs. The active ingredients in Frontline Plus—fipronil and S-methoprene—are designed to target fleas and ticks, but if ingested, they can cause gastrointestinal upset.

Here’s what you should do if your dog develops diarrhea after application:

1. Monitor for Other Symptoms: Check for other signs of a reaction, such as vomiting, lethargy, or excessive drooling. Diarrhea alone may be a mild reaction, but combined symptoms could indicate a more serious issue.
2. Encourage Hydration: Ensure your dog stays hydrated. Diarrhea can cause dehydration, so provide fresh water regularly and monitor their intake.
3. Vet Consultation: If the diarrhea lasts more than 24 hours or is accompanied by other symptoms, consult your vet immediately. They may recommend a bland diet or prescribe medication to calm your dog’s stomach.
4. Prevent Future Licking: To avoid this happening again, apply Frontline Plus to a hard-to-reach spot between your dog’s shoulder blades and consider using a cone or distracting your dog for a few hours post-application to prevent licking.

💡 Tip: If your dog is prone to licking themselves, consider applying the treatment before a long walk or during an activity where they’re less likely to focus on the application site. This helps ensure proper absorption.

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Comment 3: “Is Frontline Plus safe for dogs with allergies?”

Frontline Plus is generally safe for dogs with allergies, but every dog is different, and those with sensitive skin or environmental allergies may experience mild reactions. For dogs with known allergies, here’s how to approach using Frontline Plus:

1. Consult Your Vet: Before applying Frontline Plus, it’s a good idea to consult with your vet. They will assess your dog’s specific allergies and may recommend a sensitive skin formula or an alternative flea and tick treatment if necessary.
2. Watch for Skin Reactions: Dogs with skin allergies may be more prone to localized irritation at the application site. Mild redness or itching is normal, but if your dog has a history of allergic reactions, monitor them closely after applying Frontline Plus.
3. Prevent Licking: Dogs with food allergies or sensitivities may react if they ingest the product. To avoid this, make sure the treatment is applied in an area they can’t reach, like between the shoulder blades.
4. Consider Alternatives: If your dog has had reactions to topical treatments before, your vet may recommend oral flea and tick medications as an alternative. These can provide protection without the risk of skin irritation.

💡 Tip: To reduce the risk of skin irritation, ensure your dog’s skin is dry and clean before applying Frontline Plus, and avoid applying it to already irritated or broken skin.

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Comment 4: “How long after applying Frontline Plus can I bathe my dog?”

After applying Frontline Plus, it’s important to wait at least 48 hours before giving your dog a bath. This ensures that the treatment has fully absorbed into your dog’s skin and is working effectively. Here’s why this waiting period is essential:

1. Absorption Time: Frontline Plus is a topical treatment that needs time to absorb into your dog’s skin. Bathing your dog too soon after application can wash away the product, reducing its effectiveness.
2. Waterproof Formula: Once absorbed, Frontline Plus is waterproof and will continue to protect your dog from fleas and ticks, even if they swim or bathe. However, bathing before the 48-hour mark can interfere with absorption, so it’s best to wait.
3. Ideal Timing: If your dog is due for a bath, plan to bathe them before applying the treatment or wait two days after application. This will help maximize the effectiveness of the product.

💡 Tip: If your dog loves to swim, remember that Frontline Plus remains effective after water exposure—just ensure that your pet avoids water within the first 48 hours after application.

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Comment 5: “Can I use Frontline Plus if my dog is pregnant or nursing?”

Yes, Frontline Plus is considered safe for use on pregnant and lactating dogs. The active ingredients—fipronil and S-methoprene—are non-toxic to developing puppies and pose no risk to the mother or her litter when applied correctly. Here’s what to keep in mind when using Frontline Plus on a pregnant or nursing dog:

1. Consult Your Vet: While Frontline Plus is generally safe, it’s always a good idea to consult your vet before applying any medication to a pregnant or lactating dog. They can ensure the dosage is appropriate and confirm that there are no additional health concerns.
2. Protect the Pups: Applying Frontline Plus to the mother helps prevent fleas and ticks, which can also harm the puppies. Keeping the mother flea-free is critical, especially while nursing, as fleas can easily spread to the litter.
3. Correct Application: Ensure the treatment is applied between the mother’s shoulder blades, where the puppies cannot reach it. This prevents accidental ingestion by curious pups.

💡 Tip: Regular flea control during pregnancy and nursing is vital for the health of both the mother and her puppies. Keeping the environment clean and flea-free helps ensure the well-being of the entire litter.

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Comment 6: “Can Frontline Plus cause lethargy in dogs?”

While lethargy is not a common side effect of Frontline Plus, it can occasionally occur in sensitive dogs. If your dog seems unusually tired or sluggish after applying the treatment, here’s what to consider:

1. Mild Lethargy: In some cases, mild lethargy may be a result of your dog’s body adjusting to the treatment. If the lethargy is temporary and resolves within 24 hours, it’s typically nothing to worry about.
2. Monitor for Other Symptoms: If your dog is lethargic along with other symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive drooling, it could indicate a more serious reaction. In this case, contact your vet immediately.
3. Hydration and Rest: Ensure your dog has access to fresh water and a quiet space to rest. Most dogs recover from mild lethargy quickly, but if it persists beyond 24 hours, a vet visit is recommended to rule out any underlying issues.

💡 Tip: If your dog has a history of sensitivity to topical treatments, let your vet know before using Frontline Plus. They may suggest starting with a smaller dose or trying an alternative treatment.

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Comment 7: “Can I combine Frontline Plus with other flea treatments?”

It’s generally not recommended to combine Frontline Plus with other flea treatments unless advised by your vet. Using multiple flea products at once can lead to overdosing on active ingredients, which increases the risk of side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, and skin irritation. Here’s why it’s important to stick to one treatment:

1. Active Ingredients: Frontline Plus contains fipronil and S-methoprene, both of which effectively kill fleas, ticks, and their eggs. Combining these with other flea treatments could result in an overdose of chemicals, overwhelming your dog’s system.
2. Consult Your Vet: If you feel that one product isn’t providing adequate protection, consult your vet before adding another treatment. They may recommend switching to a different product or adjusting the treatment plan based on your dog’s specific needs.
3. Avoid Over-treating: Applying multiple treatments in a short time frame can irritate your dog’s skin or cause gastrointestinal upset. Stick to the recommended monthly schedule and allow time for the product to work before considering alternatives.

💡 Tip: If you’re dealing with a severe flea infestation, focus on treating your home and yard in addition to your pet. Environmental flea control can help ensure that a single flea treatment, like Frontline Plus, works effectively.

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Comment 8: “How do I know if my dog is having an allergic reaction to Frontline Plus?”

Recognizing an allergic reaction to Frontline Plus can be challenging, especially if your dog has never experienced one before. While severe allergic reactions are rare, they can happen. Here are the key signs to watch for:

1. Skin Reactions: One of the most common signs of an allergic reaction is excessive itching, redness, or hives at the application site. While mild skin irritation is typical after applying a topical product, intense scratching or the development of hives suggests an allergic response.
2. Swelling: If your dog’s face, lips, or eyes start to swell after applying Frontline Plus, this is a clear sign of an allergic reaction. Swelling can progress quickly, so seek veterinary help immediately if you notice any facial swelling.
3. Gastrointestinal Distress: Ingesting the product, either by licking the application site or accidentally coming into contact with it, can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. While these symptoms can be mild, they should not be ignored if they persist.
4. Breathing Issues: Difficulty breathing, excessive panting, or wheezing are more serious signs of a systemic allergic reaction. These symptoms indicate the need for immediate emergency veterinary care.

If you observe any of these signs after applying Frontline Plus, contact your vet as soon as possible. While allergic reactions are rare, quick action is important to ensure your dog’s health.

💡 Tip: If your dog has a known history of allergic reactions to topical treatments, talk to your vet about alternative flea and tick preventatives, such as oral medications, that may be safer for your dog.

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Comment 9: “Why is my dog lethargic after using Frontline Plus, and how long will it last?”

Lethargy is a rare side effect of Frontline Plus, but if your dog seems unusually tired or sluggish after application, it could be due to a mild reaction to the active ingredients, fipronil and S-methoprene. Here’s what you should know:

1. Temporary Lethargy: In some cases, lethargy may be your dog’s way of reacting to the product. If it occurs, it is usually mild and should resolve within 24 hours. Most dogs bounce back to their normal energy levels after resting for a day.
2. Monitor for Other Symptoms: While lethargy alone isn’t typically a cause for concern, if it’s accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, or difficulty walking, it could indicate a more serious reaction, and you should contact your vet immediately.
3. Hydration and Rest: Make sure your dog has access to plenty of water and a quiet place to rest. Often, the best way to help a lethargic dog recover is to let them relax in a calm environment while monitoring their symptoms.

If lethargy persists for more than 48 hours, or if your dog’s behavior seems out of character, a visit to the vet is recommended to rule out any underlying issues.

💡 Tip: Keep a record of any unusual symptoms after applying Frontline Plus. If lethargy becomes a consistent issue, consult with your vet about switching to a different flea treatment or adjusting the dosage.

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Comment 10: “What should I do if my dog accidentally ingests Frontline Plus?”

If your dog licks or ingests Frontline Plus shortly after application, it’s essential to act quickly but stay calm. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Assess the Situation: Determine how much of the product was ingested. A small lick from the application site might cause mild drooling or foaming at the mouth, which is usually not serious. However, ingesting a larger amount could lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or other gastrointestinal issues.
2. Monitor for Symptoms: Common signs of ingestion include excessive drooling, vomiting, lethargy, and in rare cases, tremors or seizures. If your dog displays any of these symptoms, contact your vet immediately.
3. Call Your Vet: Even if the symptoms seem mild, it’s a good idea to call your vet and let them know what happened. They can provide guidance on whether your dog needs immediate care or if monitoring at home is sufficient.
4. Prevent Future Ingestion: To prevent accidental ingestion, apply Frontline Plus in a spot that’s difficult for your dog to reach, such as between the shoulder blades. Consider using a cone or distracting your dog with a toy or activity to stop them from licking the area.

💡 Tip: If you suspect your dog has ingested a significant amount of Frontline Plus, bring the product packaging with you to the vet. This will help the vet assess the exact ingredients and dosage involved.

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Comment 11: “Can Frontline Plus cause hair loss at the application site?”

Yes, hair loss at the application site, also known as alopecia, can occur in rare cases after using Frontline Plus. Here’s what you need to know if you notice this in your dog:

1. Mild Hair Loss: Some dogs may experience mild localized hair loss due to skin sensitivity at the application site. This typically occurs if the skin becomes irritated by the product. Hair usually regrows within a few weeks once the irritation subsides.
2. Monitor for Skin Changes: Along with hair loss, look for signs of redness, swelling, or scabbing at the application site. If the skin appears to be healing normally and your dog isn’t showing signs of discomfort, the hair should regrow naturally.
3. When to See a Vet: If the hair loss spreads or if your dog seems uncomfortable—such as excessive licking or scratching the area—consult your vet. They may recommend a topical ointment to soothe the skin and prevent further irritation.
4. Preventing Future Reactions: If your dog experiences hair loss, your vet may suggest trying a different flea and tick prevention method, such as oral treatments, which are less likely to cause skin reactions.

💡 Tip: To help the skin heal and the hair regrow, keep the affected area clean and dry. You can also ask your vet about using a pet-safe moisturizer to soothe any lingering irritation.

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Comment 12: “Can I apply Frontline Plus more frequently than once a month if my dog has a flea infestation?”

It’s crucial to follow the recommended dosage instructions for Frontline Plus, which is one application per month. Applying it more frequently than recommended can lead to overdosing, which increases the risk of side effects like skin irritation, vomiting, or more serious reactions. Here’s what to consider if your dog has a persistent flea infestation:

1. Stick to the Monthly Schedule: Frontline Plus is formulated to provide 30 days of protection against fleas and ticks. Applying it more often can lead to a build-up of the active ingredients in your dog’s system, which may cause harm.
2. Address the Environment: If your dog continues to experience flea issues despite being on Frontline Plus, it’s possible that fleas are present in your home or yard. Treat your home, bedding, and outdoor areas to ensure fleas aren’t re-infesting your dog after treatment.
3. Consult Your Vet: If the infestation is severe, consult your vet about additional treatments, such as flea combing, bathing with flea shampoos, or using an oral flea medication in conjunction with Frontline Plus. Your vet will provide a safe solution based on your dog’s needs.

💡 Tip: It’s essential to treat your home environment when managing a flea infestation. Vacuum carpets, wash bedding, and consider using flea sprays or bombs in your home to prevent fleas from returning.

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Comment 13: “Can Frontline Plus cause neurological side effects in dogs?”

Neurological side effects from Frontline Plus are extremely rare but can occur, particularly in dogs with underlying neurological conditions or sensitivities to the active ingredients—fipronil and S-methoprene. Here’s what to watch for and how to respond:

1. Potential Symptoms: Neurological reactions may include tremors, disorientation, difficulty walking, or even seizures in very rare cases. These symptoms typically occur shortly after application if the dog has a sensitivity to the ingredients.
2. Immediate Action: If your dog shows any signs of a neurological reaction, such as tremors or loss of coordination, contact your vet immediately. They may recommend washing off the product with mild soap and water and provide additional treatments to counteract the reaction.
3. Consult with Your Vet: If your dog has a history of seizures or other neurological disorders, it’s important to consult your vet before using Frontline Plus. They may recommend an alternative flea treatment, such as an oral medication, that poses less risk for dogs with neurological sensitivities.

💡 Tip: If your dog has ever experienced a neurological reaction to flea treatments, keep detailed notes on the product used and the symptoms observed. This will help your vet choose the safest option in the future.

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Comment 14: “Why does my dog’s skin feel greasy after applying Frontline Plus?”

It’s normal for your dog’s skin to feel greasy or oily at the application site for a short time after applying Frontline Plus. This is because the product needs to spread through the skin’s oil glands to distribute itself over your dog’s body. Here’s what to expect:

1. Temporary Greasiness: The oily texture usually goes away within 24 to 48 hours as the product fully absorbs into the skin. During this time, it’s important to avoid bathing your dog to allow the treatment to work effectively.
2. Proper Application: To minimize the greasy feeling, make sure you’re applying Frontline Plus directly to your dog’s skin, not just on the fur. Part the fur at the shoulder blades and apply the product in one spot for the best results.
3. Avoid Petting the Area: Try not to pet the greasy area for a few hours after application to avoid transferring the product to your hands or other surfaces.

💡 Tip: If the greasiness persists beyond two days or spreads to other areas of the coat, consult your vet to ensure the product is being properly absorbed and distributed.