How to Get Rid of Fleas Without Using Chemicals

Would you like to know How to Get Rid of Fleas without using chemicals? This is the million-dollar question. Many people have cats and dogs that go outdoors and bring back one of the greatest enemies to their health. Adult fleas are not only a nuisance to humans and their pets but can cause medical problems including flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), tapeworms, secondary skin irritations, and, in extreme cases, anemia.

I have experimented with numerous methods in trying to rid my 6 cats, house, and carpets of this determined and intolerable insect. I have tried spot treatments like Frontline and Advantage, but the fleas in my house have developed an immunity to the stuff. I have tried natural powders like "Sentry Natural Defense" and "De Flea" but two of my cats hiss at me whenever I go near them with it. My cat Gracie even hides in a bag or under the bed when I treat the carpets. There are also many chemical powders and aerosol sprays by Zodiac and Hartz that seem to work temporarily, however, the cats end up with skin rashes or lose patches of fur. I've even tried flea bombs. The bombs work for several days but the cats need to be moved constantly and they are not fond of the chemical smell left in the air.

Several months ago I was beginning to reach my wit's end, so I did what many people do when faced with this type of dilemma. I researched the topic on the internet. The solution that resulted seemed logical, but it needed to be put to the ultimate test. It had to be effective, while at the same time, my cats had to be safe and able to tolerate the resulting atmosphere after its usage. The result of my research was Diatomaceous Earth or DE.

DE is a non-toxic, safe substance made up of crushed fossils of freshwater organisms and marine life called diatoms. Crushed to a fine powder and observed through a microscope, the particles resemble bits of broken glass. Deadly to any insect and completely harmless to animals, fish, and fowl. Most insects have a waxy outer shell covering their bodies, called the exoskeleton. DE scratches through this shell causing the insect to dehydrate leading to eventual death. More and more farmers are putting a special feed-friendly diatomaceous earth in their animal feed. Ever wonder why? Diatomaceous Earth mode of action for insect and parasite control is strictly mechanical. The microscopically sharp edges contact the insect or parasite and pierce their protective coating, so they soon dehydrate and die. The larvae is affected in the same way. This makes Diatomaceous Earth an excellent and totally natural control, with no mechanical or chemical damage to the animal tissue. It can be used as dust for fleas, lice, and other external pests by rubbing into the coat of the animal.

This form of pest control will result in improvement in the health, appearance, and behavior of our cats and dogs.

There are several warnings that should be noted here. When applying the chalk-like powder to your rugs or pets' coats, minimize the dust effect and keep it out of their eyes. Just like many aerosol sprays the dust will irritate the eyes. Also, Diatomaceous Earth sold for swimming pool filters is dangerous to human and animal health. It has been chemically treated and heated to change its composition. It will kill fleas but it can harm you and your pet as well.

I have been using this treatment for several months now and it has been very effective. Just like any other treatment, you should repeat when necessary and treat your pets if they return from the outdoors.

This is one very effective answer to the question of How to Get Rid of Fleas without using chemicals.