Natural flea prevention begins with your cat's overall health. Holistic veterinarians believe that fleas and other parasites are more attracted to a weak or unhealthy animal, or one with a weakened immune system. To begin natural flea prevention for your cat, start by examining and improving her diet. From there, try the least toxic prevention available until your find the method that is effective for you and your pet.
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Health
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Nutrition is a factor in your cat's overall health. Holistic veterinarians believe that an animal suffering from a flea infestation may likely have a more serious issue than the parasites with which to contend.
Holistic veterinarians generally recommend a nutritionally balanced homemade diet of human-grade fresh foods. They also recommend that guardians ensure their pets get enough exercise to maintain good muscle tone, circulation and elimination of waste.
Combing
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A natural flea prevention protocol begins with the least toxic, least invasive treatment. This is the flea comb. A fine-toothed metal flea comb will trap fleas as you gently and thoroughly comb your cat's fur. When combing, pay special attention to the neck, head, back and hindquarters. Have a bowl of soapy water nearby and when you have fleas in the comb, place them in the water to drown them. You can dunk the entire comb in the water to drown the fleas if necessary.
Bathing
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Cats are not usually willing bathers. However, if the infestation is severe enough, you may consider bathing your cat using a natural flea shampoo. Shampoos containing Neem oil or d-limonene are generally the most effective natural products for ridding cats of fleas.
Flea Powder
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You may also wish to apply a flea powder to your cat. Homeopathic veterinarian Richard Pitcairn suggests a mixture of one-part each of the following powdered herbs: Eucalyptus, rosemary, fennel, yellow dock, wormwood and rue. Put the herbs in a jar with a shaker top. Apply the powder to your cat's coat sparingly, using either your hand or a comb. Pay special attention to the cat's neck, back and belly. The mixture should be applied several times a week until the infestation is under control.
Additives
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Some veterinarians report success adding garlic and brewer's yeast to a cat's diet as a means of repelling fleas. Other say the method has no effect on fleas. You can give your cat brewer's yeast tablets as a treat or rub the yeast directly into her fur to see if the method works for your pet.
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