Fleas are a nuisance to your pets and your home. These critters are uncomfortable, unsightly, and unsanitary. However, eliminating them doesn’t always require using toxic and potentially dangerous chemical products.
The following non-toxic methods and regular preventative measures are key to holistic flea control for a peaceful home life.
The Dangers of Fleas for Pets and Humans
Fleas are parasitic insects that feed on the blood of other creatures, including pets and humans. However, pets are more prone to flea bites. This can cause a lot of discomfort like itching, scratching, and in worse cases, serious allergic reactions and even fatal conditions.
Flea Dermatitis, the most common result of flea bites, isn’t particularly dangerous. However, they can cause extreme harm to your pet.
The worst thing about flea bites is that they can transmit deadly diseases like tapeworms and typhus. The latter may not make your pet sick, but in rare cases, it’s transmissible to human beings through close contact.
Non-Toxic Flea Control Methods
Regular Brushing and Bathing
Frequent brushing isn’t just a way to bond with your pet. It also lets you remove fleas, eggs, and larvae from their fur. You may use a flea comb for best results.
Regular brushing, in combination with regular bathing using a pet-safe shampoo, especially for pets with allergies, is an effective way to eliminate fleas naturally with no added cost.
Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous Earth is a naturally occurring powder made from fossilized algae. Using food-grade Diatomaceous Earth and applying it cautiously in nooks and corners can curb the flea population. It works because the Diatomaceous Earth dehydrates fleas and their eggs upon contact.
Avoid overapplying it or using it directly on your pets or yourself unless instructed by the veterinarian.
Essential Oils
Essential oils like lemongrass, lavender, and cedarwood are effective flea repellents that smell good. However, proper application is a must. Diluting it with coconut oil (or other carrier oils) is necessary for topic applications on your pet.
Be careful about using essential oils around young pets, pregnant pets, and pets with respiratory issues.
Herbal Sprays
Homemade and commercially available herbal sprays made of neem oil or citrus extracts may help keep flea infestations under control. But before applying it liberally, test it on a small area of your pet’s skin first. To be safe, avoid unknown brands.
Maintain a Clean Environment
Dogs can carry fleas and their eggs and spread them. To minimize this, keep their bedding clean at all times. You should also vacuum carpets and clean other furniture like your sofa. You can use a steamer to eliminate bacteria, germs, and eggs in carpets and upholstery without using harsh chemicals.
Common Misconceptions About Flea Control
Contrary to popular belief, fleas don’t live exclusively on dirty pets and areas. Fleas are Olympic-level jumpers that can leap several times their body length. They can move from one pet to another in a second and can lay up to 50 eggs daily. You may not see them, but fleas and their eggs can lurk around the cleanest places.
Isolating your pet away from you won’t always solve the infestation. In some cases, your entire living space could be riddled with fleas already. This is why you should treat your house for flea infestations while treating your pet.
However, avoid using over-the-counter flea treatments filled with harsh chemicals. These are particularly damaging for younger and older pets as well as pregnant pets.
Benefits of Flea Control Specialists
For recurring flea problems and severe infestations, consider calling a local pest expert.
Flea extermination specialists have the necessary equipment and training to help you address your needs best. If you call one today, you can schedule a site check-up so they can assess the situation and recommend the most suitable way to control flea outbreaks. Finally, they will work with you to ensure a safe and effective treatment plan that’s safe for you, your pet, and your living space.
As a bonus, regular professional visits and interventions can help you save money. Instead of paying for expensive medical bills from flea bites, you only have to spend for their services. It may surprise you at how cost-effective flea exterminators are.
Create a Flea-Free Environment At Home Today
Fleas and rodents are responsible for some of humanity’s worst plagues. We may enjoy modern medicine today but our humble abodes and our beloved companions are still at risk for fleas.
Our recommendations for regular preventative flea control measures can help you create and maintain a safe, clean, and healthy environment. Finally, the occasional professional help can further minimize the risk of fleas and associated complications.
We understand your dilemmas as a worried pet owner. If you call us at Valley Integrated Pest Control today, we will do our best to help you get rid of fleas on your property so your pets can live long and healthy lives.
