Fleas are a common problem for pets and owners alike. Fleas get into yards, onto pets, and into the home long before they are numerous enough to be noticed by pet owners. A number of flea products are available for treating infestations, but these often may have dangerous side effects. There are ways to rid pets of fleas without resorting to potentially harmful pesticides.
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Lemon
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Lemon, used topically, is an effective way to treat flea infestation. Cut a lemon into quarters and boil it in a quart of water. Remove the mixture from heat and allow it to cool and steep overnight. Once the mixture is completely cool and has had time to steep, poor it into a clean spray bottle (one that has never been used for chemicals of any kind). Spray lemon mixture onto the infested pet and comb it through the hair. Because of the boiling, the mixture should not be sticky. This is a non-toxic chemical-free treatment that can be used frequently until the problem has subsided.
Essential Oils
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Essential oils are natural plant oils. A number of plants form their own defense against insects by producing strong oils that repel harmful bugs. Some of these oils are safe to use on pets and humans. Effective essential oils for topical use on pets are peppermint, cedar, rosemary, lavender and citronella. Add 10 to 20 drops of the desired oil to a (pint-sized or smaller) spray bottle and apply it to the pet's skin daily. Essential oils will have to be used far more frequently than commercial chemical flea treatments, but they may be safer.
Plants
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Plant the garden with flea repellent in mind. Some plants give off an odor or oil that fleas cannot tolerate. Consider planting rosemary, lavender, and mint around the perimeter of the yard to keep the property clear of fleas. Eucalyptus also repels fleas and is recommended by some websites, but the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals says it can be toxic to cats, horses, and dogs and does not recommend it.
These plants will not rid a pet of a current flea problem. They are intended for prevention. Affected pets must be treated directly.
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