Fleas are an annoying parasite that infest our cats, our homes, our yards and sometimes even ourselves. Fleas multiply quickly and can take over in no time. Fleas carry disease, cause skin irritation and itching and for cats with allergies can cause hair loss, rashes, swelling, or more severe symptoms. If your cat suffers from fleas, you can purchase commercial treatments in stores, or you can go the natural route and take care of the fleas with simple home remedies.
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Regular Grooming
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Grooming your cat regularly aids in removing and disposing of current fleas therefore aids in prevention of new infestations. Purchase a flea comb from your local pet store and thoroughly comb your cat's fur with the comb. The comb traps fleas in its teeth so that you can remove and dispose of the fleas. You may even try applying a small amount of petroleum jelly to the comb to help trap the fleas even more effectively. Once you have removed fleas from your cat's fur, dump them into a bowl filled with soapy water to drown them. Empty the water with fleas down the drain or flush down the toilet after you have finished grooming your cat. (See Reference 2.)
Natural Flea Dip
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You can create a natural flea dip for your cat to help kill the fleas infesting your cat. Boil a pot of water. Slice a lemon in half and add it to the pot of boiling water, allowing it to boil for 1 to 2 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat, and allow the mixture to cool overnight. The following day, dip your cat into the mixture or pour the mixture over your cat's fur. This dip works best for mild flea infestations. As always, no flea treatment is effective unless you also treat the cat's environment by washing all bedding and vacuuming all carpeting and furniture. (See Reference 1.)
Dietary Supplements
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Fleas really dislike the taste of yeast. Try adding a teaspoon of brewer's or nutritional yeast to your cat's food each day. The yeast will make your cat's skin and blood taste terrible to the fleas. You can also try adding a teaspoon of unpasteurized apple cider vinegar to your cat's water each day. Apple cider vinegar is a natural flea repellent and also improves your cat's immune system. Finally, ask your veterinarian about giving your cat a vitamin B1 supplement for flea control. Your veterinarian will tell you exactly how much vitamin B1 your cat needs, and can also recommend further nutritional supplements that can improve your cat's health. (See Reference 2.)
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