Flea Bites

Flea Bites on Humans and Pets

Archives for February 2019

Best All-Natural Flea Treatments

By

Fleas are actually very tiny and unless they are largely populated, you are likely to miss them, but the insect size does not deter them from jumping at least seven inches into the air, that’s how they get to hitch a ride on your dog or cat.

An infestation is a problem to both man and beast so everyone should take the right measures to remove fleas from the environment, if you are confused about the agency to consult in order to take care of your flea issues, think about Ehrlich Pest Control.

Popular Concern concerning fleas – Can fleas bite humans?

There are over two thousand discovered species of fleas in the world, out of this large number; one rare species is confirmed to prefer humans as hosts (human fleas). The common species found in homes are dog and cat fleas; they infest animals rather than humans because they are furrier. In fact they cannot survive for a long time feeding on human blood alone.

So, Yes fleas will bite humans when they don’t have access to an animal or the animal blood is no adequate.

The bite will appear reddish with a dark center, scratching the spot will cause it to swell up in minutes especially if it is left untreated. Fleas infected with a range of diseases which they can transmit to humans and animals through their bite.

These are some homemade flea treatments you can produce by yourself.

Herbal Spray

People opt for natural methods because most chemicals are toxic when applied in large quantities or frequently. Children and pets are not in any danger when herbal products are used to get rid of fleas. 

To make this product, you need four liters of vinegar, spray bottle, water (2 liters), witch hazel and lemon juice (500ml). Mix these products in the spray bottle and shake thoroughly. You can spray your house with the herbs after cleaning it up.

Vacuum your carpets, rugs and floors entirely and dispose of the dirt, then wash every piece of material you suspect may be infested with fleas. Once you’ve cleaned your home, spray the furniture, floors, pet bedding and window sills preferably with a heavy spray.

Sea salt method

This popular kitchen ingredient is also a dehydrating agent. Adult fleas dry out and eventually die when they come in contact with it.

Sprinkle it all over your carpets and allow it to sit for a maximum of two days. Then vacuum thoroughly. Remember to throw out the vacuum dirt probably containing dead adult fleas and flea eggs to prevent re-infestation.

Dish soap technique

Fleas are partially nocturnal creatures, this means that they are more active at night. This method is easy because the ingredients are things you can get in your own house at no extra cost.

Since fleas are mostly seen at after dark, it is better to carry this out at night. Get a dish soap and warm water, mix in a large bowl and place in those rooms you suspect have the most flea activities, probably those areas frequented by your pet.

The soap mixed in water will act as glue trapping fleas within as they jump because of its high viscosity.

Lemon juice spray

Fleas are repulsed by the scent of citrus and lemon happens to have this in droves. Create this spray by slicing a lemon, add a slice to a pint of water and bring to a boil. After twelve hours, pour into a spray bottle.  You can gently spray the solution on infested areas such as carpets, pet bedding, sofas and chairs.

Baking soda

This is one of the most effective herbal flea control product combined with vacuuming. First, sprinkle baking soda on your carpet. While vacuuming, you’ll notice many dead adult fleas lying around the carpet. Ensure that you dispose of the contents of your vacuum machine into a trash can immediately after.

Plants for Repelling Fleas

There are various plants that contain substances, oils and chemicals which fleas stay far away from. If you were planning on creating a back yard garden then include these plants that will beautify your home and keep parasitic insects away.

Also, you can put the flowers in vases and pots inside the house if you do not plan on getting a garden.

They are; lavender, spearmint, chrysanthemums and penny royal.

Rosemary Powder

This plant is another amazing natural flea extermination product. It is used to treat pets and repel fleas from homes, so double the effect.

To create this powder, place some rue, peppermint, wormwood and fennel with the Rosemary into a mortar, grind to a powdery form with a pestle. Sprinkle generously on affected areas including window sills and pet bedding.

 It does not kill fleas but they will prevent the parasites from hitching a ride into your house.

Diatomaceous Earth

D.E is formed from the fossilized remains of diatoms and algae. The powder is not harmful to humans but before application, wear protective clothing. The powder might not kill you, but inhaling it will irritate your throat and eyes.

Sprinkle in a straight thin line outside and in your house, this is so you can vacuum it up after two days. 

How to exterminate fleas

Always, the first thing to do after noticing an infestation is cleaning up the environment, the house. You should wash the pet beddings, yours too because fleas may have gotten dislodged on your bed

Then, vacuum thoroughly with any of the products listed above. You should apply as many safe methods as possible, because most extermination products are focused on killing adult fleas not the eggs and pupae. This is why, in the end a professional’s help should be enlisted, he/ she will chose the most suitable option for you and your family.

Difference between bed bugs and fleas

By

It is important to specify which parasite .is infesting your home since bed bugs and fleas are similar, they are a little hard to tell apart. These are some features you can look out for to be certain and to apply the appropriate treatments.

Hosts

Fleas feed on the blood of animals and will only jump on humans when there are no animals around. However, fleas prefer animals because they are incredibly furry, human do not have that feature so they cannot stay as permanent parasites on humans.

Bed bugs prefer to feed on human blood, but they do not live on humans rather they burrow into mattresses. Bed bugs survive on one bite every ten days.

Movement

Fleas do not have wings; they have sturdy hind legs adapted for jumping on hosts or long distances.

Bed bugs can crawl and burrow slowly.

Appearance

Fleas are reddish brown, sometimes black. They have narrow bodies but if viewed from the top, fleas appear flat and long

Bed bugs are reddish brown also, but they are oval-shaped and flat. They are a little larger than fleas.

Remedy for fleas and Bed bugs

The first thing you do if you notice an infestation is to clean your house thoroughly. Machine wash the pet bedding and your bed clothes then consult professionals to assist you in the identification of parasites and the best way to remove them.

Herbal remedies for flea extermination

By

Flea control treatments are based on products made with synthesized chemical compounds which can be harmful to humans and animals. However, efforts are being made every to discover new ways to combat flea attacks without endangering the lives of those around the house.

Pet health is just as important as its owners and so they deserve immediate treatment when they fall sick. Although, treating animals can rack up huge amount of bills, it is worth it for securing your pets good health. If you are feeling overwhelmed with your vet bills, you can try herbal methods.

  • First, prepare an herbal bath. The pet shampoo has to be made with natural substances that can repel fleas such as eucalyptus or pennyroyal oil. Bathe your pet thoroughly and ensure that you don’t skip any part.

     Repeat this process after a month for cats and fourteen days for     dogs.

  • Keep your house absolutely spotless, vacuum the carpets and rugs thoroughly then steam this will kill off any existent insect and suck up their eggs and larvae.
  • Soak your pet bedding in very hot water every week before washing and drying.
  • There are areas you will not be able to reach while vacuuming, crevices, nooks and crannies. These parts can be treated with powders made with natural flea repellent substances such as Rue, Rosemary, Citronella, pennyroyal, tobacco powder and wormwood. Sprinkle the powder into the cracks and leave, the fleas present will dry out.

Remember to put on protective clothing – gloves, masks and goggles before application of ground diatomaceous earth. Inhaling these products can be very dangerous for animals and people alike.

How to treat your puppy of flea infestation

By

Fleas attack any mammal available, if there is blood they will feed. This means that your tiny little dog is not an exception. It will fall prey to any flea around.

For people who consider dogs family it can be heartbreaking to see your precious puppy suffering from painful itchiness and in severe cases anemia, you are left with no choice but to look for the best treatment options available that will bring relief to your pet fast.

You cannot administer just any drug; remember the weight and age of your puppy matters.

Appropriate age for a puppy to get treated for fleas

If your puppy is younger than six weeks, the only thing you can do is to use a flea comb to pick out the insects from its fur. If the puppy is older than six weeks, there are some drugs you can administer that will not end up being fatal.

Ensure that the bedding and surroundings are treated also otherwise your puppy will keep on suffering from fleas.

Fleas don’t just cause itching, their bites can transmit diseases to your pet, so while you remove fleas inspect its stool for rice-like tapeworms and check if the puppy’s gum is pale. Paleness means that it has become anemic due to the feeding habits of fleas. Rush your pet to the veterinarian if it becomes anemic for immediate treatment.

Categories of flea treatment products for puppies

  • Products that affect larvae and eggs. (Insect growth regulators)
  • Products that eliminate adult fleas.

When you kill off adult fleas, chances are that they will leave behind larvae and eggs, IGRs will take care of that problem permanently cutting short their life cycle and prevent re-infestation.

Products for 6 – 7 week old puppies

Revolution is a professionally recommended product for six week old puppies, their weight does not matter.

Seven week old puppies can be treated with Advantage II but make sure that your pet weighs at least three pounds.

K9 Advantix II is suitable for puppies weighing four pounds.

Also available are flea collars, but the most popular product is the Seresto Collar suitable for seven week old puppies.

Products for eight-thirteen week old puppies

There are more products available for older puppies obviously because they are bigger. Frontline plus and Activyl are the recommended topical treatments and you can administer Trifexis or Nexgard orally.

Products for fourteen week old puppies

If your puppy is fourteen weeks old and a little above three pounds, you can administer Comfort is, a preventative that it can chew monthly.

Once your pet clocks six months, you can start treating with Simparica or Bravecto.

How to Exterminate Fleas from a Home?

By

Do you need to know how to exterminate fleas from a home? The bad news about fleas is that only people see only 5% on the pets or around the house. The immature stages, eggs larvae and pupae are around the house out of sight. They are the reason why it is difficult to get rid of fleas.

In order to prevent or treat an existing flea infestation, take the following steps;

  1. Groom your pet consistently.
  2. Fog your entire home, the effects can last up to seven months which is enough time to kill off every flea – mature and immature – present in the house. Use as many foggers as will need for your home.
  3. Spray your carpet and furniture properly; this will eliminate any insect hiding between the cracks.
  4. Spray your surrounding with a recommended pesticide to eliminate fleas from it, this will prevent re-infestation. Treat again after four weeks to make sure every parasite is gone.
  5. Sweep your tiles and vacuum rugs, carpets and wooden floors. Throw out the bag containing dirt far from home to prevent the pupae from hatching close to the compound again.
  6. Keep your home clean, dirt attracts rodents and rodents can carry fleas.

More Tips

  • The pet bedding should be kept squeaky clean because the insects are likely to get end up here from the host and they can reproduce this way.  Check the stuffing also while cleaning, some might be hiding in it.
  • Clean out your pet’s toys as fleas can hide inside them.
  • Fleas cannot survive under high heat so any washing you do has to be with hot water or machine wash.
  • Capstar can be put to use to eliminate any fleas, next a preventative such as NexGard will be useful to the pet to prevent more fleas.

This list of things to do can be overwhelming but then getting rid of fleas is difficult honestly. It can take weeks to get rid of them completely. This is why every pet should be on preventatives monthly to reduce chances of flea infestation. It is important to know that there are many ways to exterminate fleas from the home and what methods work best for you.

Pet Medication

There are three medications which are usually in discussion by experts for as a preventative. Sentinel is for when the animal is likely to carry fleas and parasitic worms.

Trifexis is for when the animal does not stand any risk of having fleas; also, it is useful to prevent heart worm.

Revolution helps to prevent and treat fleas, ticks, hookworms and roundworms.

How Fleas Reproduce – Water Fleas

By

Have you ever wondered how fleas reproduce – water fleas especially? Do you also wonder how they turn from just one insect to millions in a matter of weeks? The truth is that flea reproduction process is hugely dependent on environmental conditions.

Fleas Life Cycle per CDC

Different Flea Species Breeding Methods

The various species breed in different ways, for instance, water fleas breed asexually and produce more females than males only when the condition is right, but when the conditions are harsh and food is limited, they will produce more males asexually, then they sexually reproduce with females.

The females under such harsh conditions will lay eggs covered with protective coatings able to withstand the bad environment.

Fleas Reproduction Life Cycle

First the female will lay their eggs in what they consider ideal environments. It is important to know how fleas reproduce. Once the eggs have been laid, they will eventually hatch into larvae. From the larvae stage they form pupae, and the final stage is the pupae hatching into an adult flea. Once the adult flea is hatched, they will then go on to feed and repeat the cycle which can cause rapid infestations especially when conditions are right for them.

It is important to ensure you are getting rid of not only adult fleas, but fleas during all stages of their lifecycle to ensure you, your pets, and your home are all free from these pesky critters.

Diatomaceous Earth for Fleas

By

Diatomaceous earth for fleas is a substance that has naturally occurring minerals such as calcium, silicon and magnesium, diatoms and microscopic water plants. This substance is effective in controlling fleas due to the fact that they can dry out the waxy layer of most insects not just fleas until they die; it is why they are called desiccants.

This product is a good long-term investment against flea attacks in the home and surroundings. It means you never have to worry about any infestation especially if you have dogs or cats that love to play outside. Diatomaceous earth is easy to apply and considered a miracle drug against fleas.

Application of Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous Earth

Although D.E consists of natural substances, they are quite harmful to humans and any other living thing around there. Application is with a dust mask, gloves and goggles. Spray as directed and ensure that you read every caution written on the product container.

Spread the earth powder around doorways, baseboards, inside carpets and windows. The areas in the surrounding that should cover are entry points and foundation. Vacate your premises immediately after application so you will not inhale the toxic substance

 D.E can be purchased in any garden supply store, they are very common.

How to Administer Tick and Flea Medication

By

  • Ensure that the applicator stick touches your pets’ skin not just its fur. The fur cannot absorb the product to commence treatment.
  • Ensure that you apply the medication where your pet cannot reach; they may rub off the medicine.
  • Carefully apply the drug above and beyond the collar.
  • Some animals are extremely flexible so to prevent them from rubbing it off apply it at the base of the head instead of the back. Anywhere they cannot lick off.
  • Try not to rub the product into the skin.
  • Do not touch the tip of your applicator stick so you will not tamper with the dosage.
  • Before you stop, be sure that the tube is completely empty.
  • Shower praises on your cat or dog. It is not every day you can get them to sit still to take the medication.

Read this carefully before you administer any medication at all.

Products for tick and flea control to treat cats and dogs are best when the animal has no open sore and wounds. If the skin is not healthy, the product will not be utilized properly. Add canned dog food to your dogs ‘kibble’ only diet. For cats, canned foods are perfect. It will prevent them from developing urinary tract issues. Additionally, feed your cats with flaxseed oil and omega 3 fatty acids, this should make their coat shiny and skin healthy.

Flea Control Products applied orally

There are products that you can administer orally without the stress of coercing your pet to remain steady for skin application. They are, CapStar, Trifexis and Comfortis. Consult your veterinarian for the appropriate product suitable for your pet. If this seems a bit farfetched visit Flea Prevention types and use the compare and select option to find out the advantages of three or more products.

Flea Borne Diseases in Pets and Humans

By

Flea Diseases Transmitted to Pets

Pets in the home suffer from a range of diseases as a result of fleas feasting on their blood. Some of such diseases are;

  • Murine typhus from an infected flea.
  • Bartonellosis also known as Cat Scratch Disease transmitted by cat fleas.
  • Allergic reaction to the flea’s saliva leading to Parasitic Dermatitis.  Rounded bumps appear on the animal’s skin, they scratch them until they become inflamed. If the situation is not controlled the animal will lose its hair and secondary infections will arise.
  • Pets may feed on plague infested rodents and contract the plague also.
  • Since fleas live on the blood of their host animal, that loss of blood can lead to iron deficiency and anemia especially in cases where the flea population is high.
  •    Dipylidium caninum is a form of tapeworm that is transmitted by fleas to cats when they eat an infested flea.

Flea Diseases Transmitted to Humans

Fleas are confirmed to be the cause of worldwide sicknesses, CDC reported that flea transmitted diseases skyrocketed between 2004 and 2016, plagues being the most commonly transmitted. Fleas continue to a big concern because exterminating them completely is proven to be a difficult task.

They transmit diseases from contaminated fecal matter to the human when they feed or suck their blood. These are some of the diseases people suffer from as a result of flea infestation;

  • Cat Scratch disease is passed to humans from an oriental cat flea.
  • Flea tapeworm; children are prone to contact this disease when they accidently ingest a contaminated flea feces.
  • Murine typhus is passed to humans from an infected cat flea feces. When the bacteria-infested feces comes in contact with an open and untreated flea bite.
  • Tungiasis arises when Chigoe flea pierces the skin, enters inside the body to feed. This flea bite causes the affected area to itch, leading to secondary infections.

Note that any bite that is left untreated and scratched repeatedly until the wound bleeds will develop into a serious ailment, especially when it starts to excrete puss.

Pet Allergic Reaction to Fleas

It is not every pet that suffers from minor itches and irritation, some suffer severe allergic reactions from flea infestation. The condition is termed Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD)

This skin disease arises due to the animals allergic reaction to a cat flea’s saliva. It reaches its peak in summer when the temperature is high. This is the perfect time for fleas to infest homes and attach themselves to pets playing outside the house.

Effects of The Itching

An animal suffering from Flea Allergy Dermatitis will itch excessively, when they scratch that itch they will lose large tufts of hair in the affected area.

 A pet owner may notice that they emit bad odors, this occurs because the wounds are open and there is a bacterial infection.

Dogs suffering from FAD will eventually develop lesions on their inner thighs and lower backs and if left untreated those infested areas will be pigmented.

Cats are show signs of infestation on their hind legs and around their tails while dogs are affected first on the tip of their tails and rumps. Dogs are seen to scratch their thighs and flanks excessively because those are the area they are most sensitive to.

Treatment for Flea Allergic Reaction

  • Bath and groom the pet thoroughly with shampoos recommended by professionals. There are many choices available and they come with different application methods.
  • Purchase medications recommended by a veterinarian and administer orally to the ailing pets. This is to ensure that you do not confuse the treatment for cats with dogs because they differ.
  • If you notice that there is a secondary infection on the open wounds and scabs, obtain antifungal and antibiotic from your vet and administer to the pets.

Be aware that if the pets are rid of fleas and are brought back to the same flea infested environment, they will still suffer from the attacks. Therefore, before they are brought home ensure that their surrounding is completely free from flea infestation.

Contact a professional exterminator to make sure that every flea is removed, then clean your beddings and floors properly.

Natural Flea Remedies for Pets (Cats)

By

Best Natural Flea Remedies for Pets? Flea infestation is always a concern for pet owners. All natural flea repellents are more popular than ever. Cat owners’ resort to natural methods in order to side-step the blow back from using synthetic or chemical products. So, if you are interested in finding those natural methods, these are some you can work with.

Apple Cider Vinegar

This is made with one part water and two parts of apple cedar vinegar. This diluted mix can be applied in two different ways, whichever is more comfortable for you. You can use a flea comb into the mix, then groom your cat with the comb or you pour into a spray bottle and apply.

This treatment will cause the removal of yeast and allergens which are the reasons why your cats develop rashes. It will not kill the fleas on your cat but the parasites are likely to jump off. As a precaution, before application ensure that your pet is completely free from open wounds or sores, if you find even one, don’t let it come in contact with the Vinegar.

Chips made from Cedar

In the study of these parasitic insects, it has been confirmed that they stay away from Cedar scents. Now the best way to apply these chips for treatment is by placing them strategically around your cats bedding that is assuming your cat does not mind the overwhelming scent of Cedar.

Secondly, spread the cider chips around your surrounding in order to prevent fleas from even coming close to the house. Then, if you are sure that you cat does not react to the cedar scent, dab a folded bandanna with only a drop of alcohol mixed with cedar oil, it will serve as a flea repellant collar.

Herb – Rosemary

This herb is effective in chasing the insects away due to fact that they are averse to it. Rosemary has anti-inflammatory characteristics which will soothe the itching caused by flea bites; all you have to do is boil fresh Rosemary leaves in hot water. When it cools down, soak your cat in it.

Next, grind dried Rosemary leaves to a powder and spread generously around your cats bedding and play area. Fleas will literally flee from those places.

Juice from Aloe Vera

Best Natural Flea Remedies for Pets? Some cat owners choose to administer this treatment mixed with cayenne pepper. You mix Aloe Vera juice with the grinded pepper; pour the mix into a spray bottle. Apply it carefully all over your cat but ensure that it does not come in contact with its eyes.

Aloe Vera which repels fleas naturally also cools the itch left by a flea bite. It is important to note that while the gel is not harmful to cats, the latex is extremely if ingested by the pet. So, try your best to keep the plants away from your cat, if this treatment method seems too dangerous, drop it and try others.

Lemon Juice

To prepare this treatment, cut lemons into several pieces and boil, allow it to soak in the water for twelve hours. Then pour into a spray bottle and apply on your pet’s coat. Before application, ensure that the cat does not have any open wound and that it does not come in contact with its eyes.

Fleas are very susceptible to citric acid which lemons have in droves, that’s why they are effective against fleas. When you’re washing your cats bedding, add a cup of squeezed lemon juice into the machine, this should eliminate any flea egg or adult flea still clinging to the materials.

Flower – Lavender

Lavender flea repellent can be prepared very easily, first, soak in water for twelve hours or just leave it overnight. Then strain thoroughly to extract the liquid, once that is completed, pour into a spray bottle of your choice. Spray on your cats coat for carefully this is to make sure that it does not get into their mouth, eyes or nose. If you want to prevent this from happening, you can dip a flea comb into the liquid lavender and groom the cat.

Planting lavender in your garden will ensure that fleas keep away from your environment because they hate lavender scent. This is the catch, lavender plants are safe for animal ingestion but the essential oils which are usually very concentrated can be extremely harmful to cats.

Eucalyptus plant

First, this treatment method is rare and controversial because the plant is dangerous to some cats while others are allergic to its scent, but it is very effective in keeping flea at bay.

However, to keep your pet out of danger, place the plants in lidded jars filled with holes around the house. The fragrance will waft out from these holes throughout the house. On the flip side, cats will not go near the eucalyptus jars because they abhor the scent but you still have to keep them away from cat’s reach.

Now, for those living California or Australia, they can grow eucalyptus around the house. Cats should never be allowed to wander outside or close to the area where it was planted otherwise, it might die.

Salt: Flea eggs and adult fleas dry out when they come in contact with salt. All you have to do is sprinkle it on your carpet and on your pet’s beddings. Brush it in thoroughly; don’t sweep it off for two days and no more. If you don’t remove the salt from the carpet it will become wet which might lead to your house stinking terribly.

Diatomaceous Earth

This is made from fossilized algae. This is probably the safest treatment for flea infestation because both humans and animals can inhale it without coming to any harm. However, these parasitic insects cannot survive wherever they are applied. Like salts, it dries them out completely; even better, fleas cannot become resistant to it.

You can apply it around the house in a fine, defined line; this should make it easier for you to vacuum it up after three days.

Clean out the house

Best Natural Flea Remedies for Pets? It is easier to get rid of adult fleas than its eggs, larvae or pupae. When you want to eliminate fleas completely, wash every material thoroughly especially the cat’s beddings. It is best if you machine wash because the bugs cannot survive under high heat; add vinegar or lemon to the machine before washing.

Vacuum the entire house with salt and diatomaceous earth at least once a week. Dispose of the dirt bags at a far distance to stop the fleas from infesting your home all over the again. Read More…