Herbal Remedies For Fleas And Flea Control

Fleas can affect any of our small pets which includes cats and dogs which can strike very easily. Not only are they sneaky little pests that cause a lot of hassle, some animals are allergic to them. Flea allergic dermatitis affects animals that are allergic to the flea saliva after being bitten. Another thing that you need to watch out for is that fleas can pass on other types of parasites such as worms.

Flea bites can cause the animal’s skin to become red, dry, broken, weepy or even lead to pus. We need to be careful of infection, especially if the animal is already weak. A severe case can cause anemia from the blood loss of multiple flea bites.

A Flea’s Life

Fleas like warm temperatures and get comfortable with a good source of blood, this optimal environment makes the female feel safe to lay her eggs. After hatching, the pupae stick to surfaces like bedding which makes it difficult to remove them. Vacuum over several days, disposing the debris out of the house right away to avoid them from escaping after hatching out. Taking care of your animals infestation is only part of it, you need to stop the life cycle that is potentially in your home. If not the cycle restarts, you need to consider the stages of the flea cycle. Several clean ups are necessary to make sure no pupae remain to hatch as new fleas.

Some animals allergic reactions to flea bites are so severe that anti-histamines are necessary, echinacea and nettles are great to use internally for this issue. Externally, herbs that help to stop the itch and inflammation are great as compresses or infused oils and ointments.

Be Prepared For Round Two

A second round of fleas is possible since it’s difficult to know if you collected every trace. Spreading dried lavender and peppermint on sleeping areas can deter new hatched fleas. Use topically on your animal when you first spot a flea on them including powdered oxeye daisy and feverfew sprinkled on the skin. A rinse is an option with an infusion or herbal bath if the animal would be fine with it.

Fleas And Your Animal

Fleas can take a toll on your animal and a weak animal is more susceptible to flea infestations. A LOW dose of garlic and nutritive herbs such as nettle, alfalfa, dandelion and raspberry leaf will help strengthen their body. Supporting immunity is also wise if there has been an allergic reaction, using astragalus, echinacea and nettles.

Some animals get a very bad reaction to flea bites and some herbal veterinarians recommend herbs like burdock root, dandelion root, red clover or yellow dock.

It is important to remember that in most cases a healthy animal will not get flea infestations. Weak and sick animals are more prone to this type of problem. This gives us even more motivation to keep our animal’s healthy with a fresh and whole food diet. Some veterinary clinics will push flea control medications on owners. Most of the time they are unnecessary, for example, an indoor cat. Also, if you are worried about fleas, there are natural deterrents such as essential oils and non-toxic collars. Flea medications are highly toxic and can cause severe illness in your animal with its repeated use.

These are some safe herbal options when dealing with a flea concern in your animals and in your home. A wonderful option in flea control and prevention that is non toxic for not only your pets, but for you and your home.

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Consult with a holistic veterinarian or holistic practitioner to lead you in the right direction. If you feel uncertain, holistic practitioners have the expertise and wisdom to direct you to top quality herbal products for your animal. Do not use any remedies if you are not certain which and how to use them, it is best to work with a practitioner. This blog is for educational purposes only.

If you are interested in a consultation from Maria for your animal, feel free to learn more here.