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Natural Flea Control MethodsThere are many natural flea control methods available. Natural flea control begins before you ever see your pet begin to scratch! Don't wait till you see the fleas themselves, or you will face a bad flea season. It is virtually impossible to counter a massive infestation by purely natural methods. You will need some chemicals as well. Once the weather turns cooler, you have a better chance to eradicate the fleas. Outdoors and Boundary TreatmentsA good preventive measure is to plant chrysanthamums around the perimeter of your home. Anywhere that you or your pet access your home should have a mum plant nearby. These plants contain a natural form of pyrethrin, a fast acting and quickly dissipating poison used against fleas. Because it is in the plant form, the side-effects and environmental concerns are not as dire. However, do not allow your pets to eat the plants.Pyrethrin is the naturally occurring poison in the seeds of Chrysanthamums and can be used indoors or out. It is a common ingredient in many flea control preparations. It can be augmented by combining it with a chemical compound called "Pyrodone" or benzodioxole. Pyrethrin typically evaporates quickly when exposed to air and sunlight and leaves no residue in the environment. A laboratory version of this compound is called pyrethroid. These may harm aquatic life, so keep them away from ponds and aquariums. Cats are particularly sensitive to this chemical, and it can harm them. Keep cats out of the treated area, and never use the compound on them. Another prevention measure is the use of Diatomaceous Earth in a three foot band around your home. This band of microscopic encrustations will keep the fleas at bay. It is totally non-toxic to plants or pets and will keep all hard-shelled pests outside the boundary. Any of these pests inside the boundary can be dealt with by other means. There are food-grade diatomaceous earth products on the market to clean out the digestive tract from all parasites, such as worms. It is also used in aquariums to microscopically filter the water. Treatments Used on PetsNEEM Oil can be used as a spray on pets or outside in the landscape. It acts as an insect growth regulator which keeps fleas from becoming adults. It is not toxic to pets or people and does not harm bees or ladybugs. It can be used indoors or out. Neem oil is extracted from the Neem tree in the near east. It is considered a "miracle tree" for the many benefits it provides.Linalool or limonene (citrus extract) is another effective natural compound for flea control. It is found in shampoos for our pets and products for the home. The efficacy of the citric acid can be enhanced using something historically known as "spirit of amber." The combination seems to keep fleas at bay, although it does not kill them. You can use most citrus oil, but lemon is the preferred base. Peppermint Oil is often used in natural preparations for flea control. It calms cats, reduces itch and repels fleas. Soybean Oil has natural pest repellent properties. It is used as a base in many herbal preparations. Thyme Oil reduces swelling of bites and constricts blood vessels. It is often added to flea preparations and after-bite products. Mechanical Methods of Flea ControlMechanical methods also help. Vacuuming thoroughly will pick up fleas in all stages of life, including their eggs. This is the only way to stop the eggs from hatching. Once you vacuum, take the waste beyond your barrier treatment to the trash.Combing your pet with a flea comb can help during an infestation. I suggest keeping a shallow dish nearby with isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) in it. As you comb your pet, dip the comb in the alcohol to kill any fleas or eggs that you pick up. If you use any of the products that kill adult fleas, they seem to want to bite as they die. This method provides some relief for your pet. A flea trap can greatly diminish the fleas in less than 24 hours, with near eradication within the vicinity of the trap. Dietary SupplementsFeeding our pets brewers yeast and garlic oil in their food makes their blood unattractive to fleas. There are many forms of this tried-and-true remedy available. Human food-grade products may be used, and there are pet-specific preparations.While it seems fairly simple to control fleas with just these few components, they continue to get the better of us. Constant vigilance is required. For those who prefer a more natural lifestyle, and less impact on the environment, the above methods can be quite effective. It is suggested that all these methods be used together for the best results. To the Top of Natural flea control methods
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