Fleas are built to last, hard to get rid of and a living hell for pet owners. These parasites live off of the blood of its host, and unless your pet begins scratching, can be hard to detect. A simple way to check for fleas is to put your pet in the bathtub. Run water over their body, take a fine-toothed comb and run it through their fur. Fleas prefer to hang out at your pet’s ears and tails. Currently, there are various products for flea treatments, but in this article, we’ll focus on natural flea treatments for pets.
To understand fleas, know there are about 2,500 species of flea. Their undergo four different phases of life which are:
- Egg phase: The female flea lays up to over 20 eggs at once
- Larva phase: This can last up to a week as they eat and grow
- Pupa phase: This is when they construct a cocoon and will remain for months until they detect a possible host
- Adulthood phase: This is when they will look to feed and are capable of going months between eating. They also focus on reproducing with the adult females laying eggs.
The entire lifespan of a flea is only a few months, but a female can lay hundreds of eggs during her lifetime. Getting rid of fleas from your pet and home can be hard. Some might recommend chemical-based flea-control products but these solutions can be dangerous for your pets. For peace of mind try these 100% Natural top 8 flea prevention and treatments:
1. Apple cider vinegar spray
In a spray bottle mix 4oz of water, 6oz of ACV and 1/2 tsp of Himalayan salt. You can apply this 3 times a week.
2. Black walnut
Black walnut comes in liquid or capsule form. Administer 3 times a week. Make sure you don’t give your pet too much because it can be toxic in large amounts.
3. Diatomaceous earth
This algae-based power will eliminate flea-infested areas safely. You can apply this 3 times a week.
4. Neem oil
Naturally safe repellent that is derived from trees. You can apply this 3 times a week.
5. Plants that repel fleas
Chrysanthemums, Lavender, Penny Royal and Spearmint planted in your yard and around your front door may deter pests from traveling inside your home on your pet.
6. Nematode based products
Nematode is a safe microorganism that consumes flea larvae. You can apply this 3 times a week.
7. DIY flea bath
In your pet’s bath water mix 5 drops of citronella oil, eucalyptus oil, peppermint oil, rosemary oil, tea tree oil and 1 cup of water. You can bathe them like this once a month.
8. Clearing homes of fleas
Remember to clean your house thoroughly by vacuuming, cleaning furniture and washing your pet’s toys and bedding. You must be vigilant because fleas are persistent. You and your pet can overcome these pests without the need for using toxic chemicals. Flea eradication is totally doable with natural treatments.
