Natural Ways to Kill Fleas on Newborn Kittens With Eucalyptus

Kittens, those lovable little furballs, are sweet enough to eat, especially to fleas. Fleas don't respect age, and will move from a mother cat to kittens. Newborn kittens are fragile and sensitive to many flea control chemicals. Using natural flea repellents protects the kitten's environment and keeps fleas away from the newborns.

  1. Fleas

    • Fleas are parasitic insects that drink the blood of animals. The adults lay eggs that fall to the ground or carpet. The eggs hatch into tiny worm-like larva that eats the castings of adult fleas. The larva spin a small cocoon around themselves as they morph into adult fleas. The cocoon is resistant to chemicals. This is why multiple -- or continuing flea treatments -- are needed. Many treatments kill adult fleas, larva and eggs. But as the cocoons open, the animal is re-infected.

    Prevention

    • The best way to protect young kittens from fleas is to protect the mother. A pregnant cat should receive appropriate flea medication during and after her pregnancy. If the mother cat goes outside, consider treating the grass to kill or repel fleas. Talk to your veterinarian about the type of flea treatment that is best for your pregnant cat. As the young kittens begin to explore their world, make sure that they stay within boundaries that keep the kittens away from flea infestation.

    Flea Repellant

    • Eucalyptus is an aromatic plant that naturally repels fleas and ticks. Eucalyptus oil, the extracted essence of the plant, comes in spray form or drops. Do not spray eucalyptus oil directly on the kitten. The chemical in eucalyptus result in allergic reactions in many cats. Do not leave fresh eucalyptus where the kittens may gain access. The little creatures shouldn't chew on the stems or leaves of the plant.

    Flea Removal

    • Immerse the kitten in the water up to its neck. Any fleas on the kitten may try to escape to the head. While immersed, wash the kitten's head with a sponge, mild detergent and warm water. Lather the kitten with mild dishwashing detergent. Rinse the kitten thoroughly. Place a line of petroleum jelly along the back edge of the comb. The jelly traps any fleas that try to escape over the back of the comb. Comb the kitten, starting at the head and working back. Wash all of the kittens' bedding. Spray the kitten's clean bedding with eucalyptus oil. Place sprigs of fresh or dried eucalyptus around the room too.