Flea products purchased from your veterinarian or at a pet shop are often expensive and can be harsh to your pet as some contain toxic chemicals. Homemade products generally consist of natural material that will not harm your pet during treatment. Although dogs go outdoors regularly, house cats seldom do, but can still get fleas as these pesky little creatures can hop a ride on you or another pet and be carried into your home.
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Vinegar Flea Spray
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Mix 1 cup of white vinegar with 1 cup of water and put into a spray bottle. Spray your pets fur generously and massage into their coats, being careful not to get any in the eyes. Rinse the bottle after each application and prepare a new batch each time you do a treatment, repeating the process twice a week. Cats, however, do not like the scent of vinegar so they may be difficult to work with.
Lemon Flea Spray
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Boil 1 cup of water and remove from heat. Add 2 thinly sliced lemons to the water and allow mixture to steep until it has cooled completely. Dab the solution onto your pet's coat with cotton balls or gauze and massage into your pet's coat. Repeat this process two to three times a week to keep fleas away. Fleas are repelled by citrus, and your pet should remain flea free and smelling like a fresh lemon.
Keeping Home Flea Free
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To keep your home flea free, wash your pets bedding weekly with a strong detergent and add a cup of vinegar to the water. Make sure the bedding is completely dry before letting your pet lay down on it. Vacuum floors several times a week and keep the area around your pets bedding clean to eliminate fleas and eggs that have hopped off your pet. Check your pet regularly for flea infestation. If a large outbreak occurs, it may be necessary to fumigate your home to kill the eggs and larvae inside the home and then treat your pet to eliminate fleas. Fumigation kits can be purchased at local hardware stores and should be used as directed.
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