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3 Keys to Kill Fleas
Still bothered by fleas? Here are two additional ways to get some relief. Although the pharmaceutical companies do a great job of marketing products to treat the fleas on your pets, this is only 1 of the 3 keys in treating the infestation. Consulting a professional may be your best option in a severe infestation. If you prefer to “do it yourself” and avoid harmful chemicals, try the following and be sure to consult with your veterinarian for additional suggestions.
1) Treat your house. Vacuum often. Then vacuum again! The only effectiveness I’ve seen for a flea collar is to use it in the vacuum bag (or bagless unit) to kill fleas & larvae that have been vacuumed. Dust household surfaces (where fleas hide and lay eggs) with food-grade diatomaceous earth. This is especially important in the areas where your pets spend most of their time. Wash bedding/slipcovers, etc often with the hottest water safe for the fabric. 2) Treat your yard. Beneficial nematodes can be applied with a hose-end sprayer and are available at some garden nurseries and most organic nurseries. www.fleabusters.com has some additional information and products.
Fleas are blood-feeding insect parasites that can trigger allergic reactions, cause anemia, and carry diseases such as tapeworms and cat scratch disease. Female fleas can lay 50 eggs/day into pets’ indoor and outdoor environment. In a flea infestation, 95% of the fleas are in developmental stages (larvae & pupae). Only 5% are the adults that are easily visible. Because of the timing of the flea life cycle it is crucial to consistently treat the house, yard and pet for several months to break the cycle and see significant improvement.
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