Fleas have tormented dogs and cats for as long as their existence. New products have been introduced to control them, and many are very effective. But they come with a price: They are toxic and may have long-term side effects. Additionally, there is some evidence that overuse of these products may be causing drug resistance in fleas--they are beginning to develop immunity to the toxic sprays used to control them.
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History
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In the past, flea control was limited to dips, sprays, powder and collars. All were toxic and most were messy. In 1995, Ciba Animal Health introduced Program, a once-a-month tablet that ushered in a new era of flea control. Pet lovers now spend more than $1 billion dollars a year on flea-control products. Many dogs and cats are living flea-free lives and suffering no known ill effects, but because there can be adverse reactions to both prescription and over-the-counter products, many pet owners are choosing chemical-free flea treatments for their companion animals.
Dangers
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According to CDC reports, animal groomers working with flea-control products have reported incidents of respiratory illness, rapid heartbeat, chest pain and conjunctivitis. In most cases, workers were not wearing appropriate safety gear, which includes gloves, goggles, rubber boots and waterproof aprons. Yet they're sprayed or poured directly on your pet! Many flea-control products are carcinogenic, and some are suspected to causing endocrine system disruptions. Asthma, allergies and skin reactions have been reported, and some dog-specific products are very toxic to cats.
Chemical-Free Alternatives
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Happily, there are non-chemical alternatives to flea control. Many are herbal based, and one--diatomaceous earth--is made from the fossilized remains of diatoms. Fleas spend most of their lives off your pet, hopping on only for a blood meal. It's important to treat your pet's living area, including bedding and carpets, as well as the damp, dark corners where fleas lay their eggs. To effectively eliminate fleas, you must eliminate the eggs, larvae, juveniles and adult fleas. The good news: Once you've brought flea populations under control, maintenance is easier.
Powders
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Diatomaceous earth is sold in several powder forms. It is a finely ground, crystalline powder made from the fossilized shells of diatoms, a form of algae. Sprinkled around the perimeter of your house, in the basement and over your carpets and pet bedding, it will kill fleas by dehydration. Diatomaceous earth is non-toxic, but it should not be regularly inhaled. Follow directions carefully, and use the appropriate formulation--the form used for swimming pool filters is not appropriate for use as a dust. Look for "food grade" diatomaceous earth.
Collars
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Flea collars are a convenient way to protect your pet from fleas and ticks. There are several styles available including "rechargeables," which you restore to effectiveness with a few drops of flea-repellent oil. Many very safe herbal oils are used in these collars, including cedarwood and lemongrass. Other oils such as citronella, eucalyptus and geranium, are toxic to cats. Please read and follow the instructions that accompany the collar.
Sprays
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Perimeter sprays are used outdoors and can reduce flea populations quickly. There are products available that contain nematodes, a microscopic worm that feeds on flea larvae. Simply wet down your grass, spray these little warriors onto your pet's play areas and that's it. The product begins working immediately. You cannot effectively reduce flea populations without killing the eggs and larvae, so perimeter control is a key part of your defense.
Grooming and Supplements
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There are a variety of supplements that can strengthen your pet's immune system, enhance their skin and coat and make them less appealing to hungry fleas. Brewer's yeast and garlic have been used for centuries with good results. Essential Fatty Acid (EFA) tablets keep your pet's skin and coat healthy which, when combined with regular brushing, can create a less hospitable environment for fleas. Periodic bathing--an easier task for dog owners than cat owners--can keep fleas at bay as well.
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