Getting rid of fleas naturally is a challenge for many homeowners. Fleas are parasites that like to bite warm blooded mammals in order to feed on the blood. They pierce the skin and then extract the blood. Once they have eaten they jump off the host and hide until it is time for the next feeding. When a dog or cat is outside, fleas can jump on your pet and then ride the host into the house. If you see 1 flea on your dog, assume that there are at least 100 more in your home.

Getting Rid of Fleas Naturally on Your Pets

The key to getting rid of fleas is to make sure that your pets are flea free. Once your pet is treated, then you can remove them from your home.

Getting rid of fleas naturally on your dog involves using a herbal shampoo. Even a shampoo that isn\'t medicated will help wash the fleas off of your dog. Consider adding herbs to the shampoo such as pennyroyal or eucalyptus oil. These will naturally repel the fleas. Note that some shampoos that safe for dogs, are not safe for cats, so read the labels carefully.

After the bath, use a flea comb to groom your dog or cat. The fine teeth of the comb will remove any fleas that are caught in their coat. Mix some soap and water in a dish and be sure to dunk the comb in this solution frequently. The soap and water is one of the best ways to kill fleas.

Another tip for getting rid of fleas naturally is to make your dog or cat less appetizing to the fleas consider adding a little bit of garlic and brewers yeast mixed with food. These products will change the taste of your pet\'s skin to the dislike of the fleas.

Once your pet is flea free, you need to keep them that way. If you believe the fleas are likely to return, then you may want to consider one of the new flea treatments available such as Program which is highly effective for periods of 30 days.

Getting Rid of Fleas Naturally in Your Home

Within a day of removing the fleas from your dog and cat, the next step is to remove them from your home. Vacuuming is the first line of defense. Be sure to vacuum in small nooks and crevices. Remove any clutter in the area where your dog lives since this provides many hiding places. Wash the dog or cat bed and any other items used by your pet.

A simple home remedy for removing fleas from the home is to put on a light at night in the room where the fleas are living. The fleas will naturally be drawn to the warmth of the light. Under the light place a plan with water. Once they leap to the light they will weaken and fall into the water.

For killing fleas in carpet use a borax based powder. Borax is highly effective at killing fleas. Follow the directions on the container.

Getting Rid of Fleas Naturally Outside

Most garden centers sell bags of small worms called nematodes. These tiny worms naturally feed on fleas. Sprinkle them around the home and let them do their work. Once the fleas are gone, the nematodes will fade into the environment. This is a safe and effective method.

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