Remedies to Get Rid of Fleas

Getting rid of fleas is not a single-step process or even a one-time process. To truly stop an infestation of fleas, you must treat your pet, your home and your yard. Treatment may require multiple applications to be totally effective, and, once the fleas are gone, you must take preventative steps often to ensure they do not return.

  1. Pets

    • The best approach to treating fleas on your dog or cat is to purchase a flea-control medication from your veterinarian. These products include Frontline, Advantage, Revolution and others. The products prescribed by your veterinarian are effective, and they are safe for your pet. This is not true of many over-the-counter products.

    Homeopathy

    • If you would prefer to try homeopathic treatments for fleas on your pets, begin with an old-fashioned flea comb. These combs have fine teeth, but you must go over your pet daily until the infestation is under control. Comb your pet, removing fleas as you go. Dip the fleas in a bowl of soapy water to drown them. You may also wish to consult with a homeopathic veterinarian who will examine your pet's overall health and diet and who can offer suggestions regarding various herbal treatments and other natural applications to keep pests at bay.

    Home

    • You may consider calling an exterminator or using a flea-bomb product available in supermarkets and department stores to get rid of fleas inside your home. However, you can take several other steps that may be less toxic and less expensive.

      Vacuum frequently, as often as three times a day, until the infestation is under control. Buy a flea collar, and place it in your vacuum bag to kill the bugs. Vacuuming can remove adult fleas and flea eggs.

      Your pet's bedding must also be thoroughly cleaned. Wash bedding in hot and soapy water, and run it through your clothes dryer.

      Also consider washing any linens, curtains or other items and vacuuming upholstery and furniture that may harbor fleas.

    Yard

    • Concentrate on outdoor areas where your pet spends a lot of time, such as a dog run, dog house or kennel area, when you begin treating your yard. Also treat decks, along fences and next to the foundation of your home. It is not often necessary to treat the entire yard. Insecticides designed for outdoor use can be purchased and applied using a spraying device.

    Prevention

    • The first step in prevention is to apply a monthly flea preventative, prescribed by your veterinarian, to your pet.

      To prevent fleas outdoors, keep your lawn maintained.

      Vacuum regularly to keep fleas from reinfesting your home. Wash pet bedding often, and run it through a dryer cycle each time.