Fleas are a common household problem especially if you have pets like dogs and cats. Fleas are also found in houses that previously had pets. Though fleas can transmit diseases, but chances are rare. The concern is the discomfort that flea bites cause to humans and pets. Several species of fleas exist – adult fleas feed on blood by piercing the skin of mammals and birds, while the flea larvae feed mostly on organic matter in bedding and carpets.
How To Recognize Flea Bites
Check out for small red welts, usually itchy and grouped together. They are mostly observed on ankles, though fleas can bite on any part of the body. Flea bites can cause severe irritations and rashes that may itch and even bleed. Avoid scratching as it may spread infection. You need to maintain a very good hygiene or else flea infestation in the house may secretly multiply. If you do not want to apply those chemicals in your abode or on your pet, go the other way- the natural way to get rid of fleas.
Yeast To Kill The Fleas
Fleas do not like the taste of yeast. Take some nutritional or brewer’s yeast and rub it onto your pet’s skin. Alternatively, you can also sprinkle some yeast on your pet’s wet food and mix it.
Garlic
Garlic has the same effect as yeast. Add very little amount of garlic onto your pet’s food. But be very careful with the amount as it can cause irritation and may even turn toxic.
Citrus Oil
Citrus oil also helps to repel fleas. Cut a slice of lemon very thinly and add to a pint of water. Heat the water to the boiling point. Let it sit the whole night and the next morning, spray the liquid onto areas where you suspect fleas infestation. Do at least once a month. Ingestion of this liquid may cause discomfort in your pets.
Plant Herbs To Repel Fleas
This is one of the non-toxic ways of repelling fleas away from your house. You can also use these herbs in combination with other natural flea control ways.
Lavender
Apart from its lovely smell, Lavender works wonder in repelling fleas. Plant this herb in your yard. Lavender also attracts certain beneficial insects and helps to keep the nearby plants insect free.
Mint
Planting mint is an effective and natural way to deter fleas.
Catnip
Catnip helps to prevent fleas and other insects such as ants, beetles, aphids etc. This herb is also loved by the pets.
Tips To Live Flea Free
Clean Up Your House
Sprinkle salt, borax or baking powder throughout your carpet and start vacuuming. Remember to work out into the base. Let the powders sit for few hours. These powders will cause the flea eggs to dry out. Keep your pets out of the carpet you are cleaning.
After the cleaning, seal the vacuum bag and throw it in covered trash container. This is to prevent them from crawling again to the house. Trim the weeds and lawns. Expose covered and moist spots to sunlight. Wash your pets regularly with any pet shampoo. Soapy leather will kill the fleas.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.