Solutions for Killing Fleas

Pets can get fleas from time spent outdoors during flea season. Even if a pet never goes outside, it can still get fleas that are brought in on its owner's clothes. It may take repeated attempts to rid your pet and home of fleas. Effective treatments for killing pets include treating the pet, the home and outdoor areas.

  1. Chemical-Free Treatments

    • For a mild case of fleas, nonchemical treatments may be effective. Use a flea comb to comb your pet. Start at the head and work your way down your pet's body. Pay special attention to the neck, ears, belly and tail, as fleas may be more dense in those areas. Dip the flea comb between each stroke in a bowl filled with a solution of mild soap and water to kill the fleas. Repeat the process daily until fleas are gone.

      Bathe your pet periodically with a mild shampoo to kill fleas and minimize skin irritation. Flea shampoo is not necessary and may be toxic to your pet. Start at the head, being sure to avoid contact with the eyes, nose and mouth. Using a flea comb while bathing can make treatment more effective. Rinse your pet thoroughly with clean water to remove the soap and fleas.

      After brushing, thoroughly vacuum the entire house, especially areas where your pet spends a lot of time. Empty the vacuum immediately and dispose of the contents outside. Wash all bedding and pet collars in hot water.

      Nematodes are a type of worm that eats flea eggs and are an effective form of control for outdoor fleas. You can purchase nematodes at home and garden stores.

    Natural Treatments

    • Boric acid kills fleas living in carpets but is non-toxic to your pet. Sprinkle the boric acid in your carpet, allow it to sit for a few hours and then vacuum it up. Test the boric acid in a hidden corner before you use it to ensure it does not discolor your carpet. You may also use food-grade diatomaceous earth or salt just as you would use boric acid when treating carpets and fabrics. These products dehydrate the fleas and cause them to die.

    Professional Treatments

    • In cases of severe infestation, hire a pest control professional to treat your home. At the same time, take your pet to a veterinarian or groomer for a professional flea dip.

    Prescription Treatments

    • A veterinarian can prescribe topical flea treatments to kill any fleas on your pet and to prevent their recurrence. Apply the treatments according to a veterinarian's instructions. While over-the-counter treatments such as spot treatments and flea collars are available, they can be hazardous to your pet and are not as effective as prescription treatments.