Killing Fleas

Fleas are very tiny (only about 1/8 of an inch big) insects that find their home in the hair of animals. These pests are wingless, so cannot fly, but have three pairs of legs, with the back legs being excellent for jumping. There are three stages to a flea life cycle – flea eggs, flea larvae and adult fleas.

More numerous during the warmer months of the year, fleas can still be a problem indoors during the winter months when pets are present. You can be sure that flea larvae can be found in places where your pet is frequently found, such as in their pet bed or on the carpeting they sit and lay on. If you have a problem with fleas in the wintertime, you will see a huge population boom of these pests once spring and summer arrive.

Once the fleas hit the adult stage, they need blood in order to survive and to continue to produce more eggs. They normally get this from animals, like cats and dogs, but will turn to humans when animals are not readily available or when their numbers get very high.

A flea bite is similar to a mosquito bite. It leaves a red, circular area on the skin that will often become irritated and quite itchy. These bites can be located all over your body, but oftentimes you will see a greater number of them around the ankles and low on your legs.

Home Remedies For Killing Fleas:

There are many home remedies for fleas that have been used over the years. Some of these natural cures are proven to be effective, while some have not. To get rid of fleas, you can try the following:

Frequent Vacuuming:

The best natural cure for controlling fleas with no chemicals or insecticides is vacuuming. When you frequently vacuum around your pet’s bed, resting areas, and play areas, you will pick up many of the larvae and prevent them from getting that first “meal” as an adult. This will effectively kill them and prevent them from creating more eggs. Both pet owners and veterinarians consider this to be the best weapon and most effective of the many home remedies for fleas.

Bathing Your Pet With Flea Shampoo:

Pest shampoos for pets are a great home remedy for fleas. They are quite numerous and available at almost any pet and discount store. These shampoos effectively kill the fleas found in your pet’s hair. However, shampooing is not enough by itself. If you do not frequently vacuum, you pet will easily pick up new fleas soon after a bath using flea shampoo.

Using A Flea Comb On Your Pet:

Much like a lice comb for humans, a flea comb for your pet can be a huge help in the fight against fleas. This home remedy can be used on a daily basis. The flea comb can get at the eggs and larvae found in your pet’s hair and you can actually “put them down the drain”, where they will not be able to survive.