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Flea Bites

Flea Bites on Humans and Pets

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Archives for May 2019

Top three places where you can easily find fleas

May 30, 2019 By admin

Some wonder where fleas can easily be found. In this article we will go over the top three places where you can easily find fleas. Fleas are dangerous parasites that live on the neck, back, and the underside areas of dogs, cats and another pets, with their eggs, pupae and larvae developing outside their host.

But the question usually is, where do these fleas live before preying on their host?

Doghouse

One of the top three places you can easily find fleas is right in your backyard. Check out your doghouse, fleas might be the most regular visitor to your doghouse. Ensure you doghouse is treated and cleaned regularly.

Top Three Places Where You Can Easily Find Fleas

Your House

Another of the top three places you can find fleas is in your house. In most cases the fleas you find in the house are either in the larval or egg stages. It is important that you ensure they do not go beyond this stage. Change the bedding of your pets regularly, clean and vacuum your house properly, and also dispose of your vacuum bags.

The Yard

The third place you can easily find fleas is the yard. Fleas can live in different climates, although they usually prefer humid, shady and moist areas. You can easily find fleas on tall grasses or wood piles. Always ensure you make use of a yard spray to kill ticks and fleas outside of your home and in your gardens.

The eggs and larvae are the initial stages in the life of a flea, it is important that fleas are terminated at these stages, if they are not, they could progress to the pupae stage. There are signals like pressure, carbon dioxide and vibrations that allow a pupa to know it is the right time to morph into an adult as an adult might be near.

You can protect your pets from parasites with the help of shampoos, topical drops, collar and carpet powders, not forgetting yard sprays and full room foggers. Solving the whole problem is important to having an environment free of pest. Also remember to make use of only one pet product at a time. Also ensure you consult a vet if your pet is old, pregnant or nursing before you make use of a flea product.

  • Can fleas live in your bed?
  • Flea Bites Frequently Asked Questions
  • Difference between dog fleas and cat fleas?
  • How To Get Rid Of Fleas In House
  • Do fleas reproduce while feeding on human blood?

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Do I have fleas?

May 27, 2019 By admin

Do I have fleas? One flea can multiply to millions in a matter of weeks, so if you assume that it’s still not much around your home, then you are making a huge mistake because you, your family and pets will continue to suffer from bites, daily.

Fleas

Flea Bites on Human

Fleas are parasitic insects that grow to 1-3 inch, tinier than the tip of a ball pen. Their colors range from black to reddish brown and they move by jumping with strong hind legs. Their bodies are flat and thin, covered with tiny microscopic hair which makes it easy for them to burrow into animal fur.

 How does a flea bite appear?

Their bites are rather unique in appearance, if you know what you’re looking for, you will spot it with no stress. The common places on the human body to search are the lower legs, groin, armpits, waist, knees, elbows and back.

The affected spot becomes red in a matter of minutes after the bite, unlike other insect bites, it has a dark center.

The bump is in clusters of 3’s and four’s in the same area.

Signs of a bite

The first thing a person who was bitten will notice is the itchiness. Then the skin around that area becomes sore and irritated due to scratching.

 This is where treatment is important, if you leave the spot untreated, you might be moved to scratch the itch excessively, open it up and it will be infected by harmful bacteria

Can flea bites lead to other health issues?

Rush your pet to a veterinarian to be sure no disease was transmitted in the infestation.

YES. They can transmit diseases through their bites to human and pets although the chance of fleas infecting your pet is higher.

How will I know if I have fleas in my house?

The common species – cat and dog fleas – choose animals as hosts. So, if you have pets, check them first for an infestation.

Your carpet and pet bedding will probably have dislodged adults hiding inside.  Walk on your carpet and rugs with white socks, the tiny parasites are likely to be stuck underneath.

Can I get a flea infestation even if I do not have pets?

Fleas are not picky eaters; they are desperate little bugs that will jump on any mammal to survive. This means that they can hitch a ride on rodents, wild animals in your environment and even your neighbor’s pet.

Another important thing to remember is that they prefer shady hidden areas, so if you have tall grasses around you, they could be hidden right there.

If you do all these and still experience bites daily, then consult a doctor and a professional exterminator to evaluate the situation.

How do I treat flea bites?

Some bites will go away without treatment if you can endure the itching. If you cannot, there are over the counter medications available, the antihistamines and anti-itch creams usually soothe the itch.

However, the bites will not stop if you do not treat home and pets.

There are several pesticides you can administer but the most reasonable decision would be to leave the job to a professional. Depending on the level of infestation, you might need to vacate your home for a few days, the chemical used for treatment may be toxic.

Exterminate fleas for good

Flea collars are efficient in repelling them on pets and if you notice an infestation, take your pet to the vet for treatment, it may have been infected with other diseases.  Don’t bring your pet back home until you completely rid your home of these pests or you will risk a re-infestation.

  • What Makes Fleas Bite Humans?
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  • Flea Bites Frequently Asked Questions
  • Kill Fleas in a bed
  • Difference between dog fleas and cat fleas?

Filed Under: Flea and Pets Tagged With: Do I have fleas

Mosquito bites vs Flea bites

May 26, 2019 By admin

People are different and will react in several ways to bites though there is always a central or general reaction of an itchy sensations followed by an angry red bump. Some are allergic to mosquito bites, others itch just a little and it goes away on its own without any treatment after a few days.

Welts may develop and it can be in different sizes like a big mosquito bite and the surrounding skin will redden and swell up, sometimes it feels sore to the touch.  Blisters and sore which arise due to excessive scratching or allergies can be intensely painful and hideous to look at. Rare conditions caused by a mosquito bite, are known as Skeeter syndrome and HMB (hypersensitivity to mosquito bites)  

Skeeter syndrome causes your body to react to a mosquito bites as if it were a harmful infection. The bitten area is often warm, red and swollen. If you are severely allergic the area may develop blisters alongside internal symptoms seen through nausea and high fever.

Hypersensitivity to mosquito bites causes the patient to react intensely to a bite, following this, an acute and fast swelling occurs. The blisters which will form inevitably are filled with liquid and if handled poorly are likely to erupt. The patient may experience other symptoms like high fever and kidney failure.

Another serious condition that a person can have as result of a mosquito bite is Anaphylaxis. It is probably the worst of the three. Anaphylaxis can cause mistake the bite as an allergy and react as such, you may go into shock even without the visibility of the bite. It requires immediate medical assistance as you may not be able to breathe properly.

What to do when bitten

First thing to note is that, mosquitoes do not have venom like scorpion or some species of spiders so you can rule that out. If the bite begins to increase in size, place an ice pack over it to reduce the swelling. Then wash the area with a disinfectant soap and water because the problems associated with mosquito bites is caused by the saliva. Keeping the spot clean should get rid of all traces of mosquito fluid.

Buy recommended antihistamines from a pharmacy to soothe the itch and reduce swelling. Some topical products (tablets or gels) can be used to treat it. If the bites are sore and relentlessly painful, you can buy some prescribed pain killers to numb it and if your child was also bitten, be sure that the product you treat him/her with are safe for kids.

Mosquito bites rarely require medical attention, but if the spot isn’t getting any better and if you suspect you are going into anaphylactic shock then you direly need a hospital. Mosquitoes are capable of spreading some diseases such as malaria. If your region or State is riddled with disease spreading mosquitoes, then you have to stay alert. Watch yourself and family for any unusual symptoms. You could experience upset stomach, joint pain or a high fever, these are in line with a disease probably transmitted through mosquito bites.

Flea bites appearance

Flea bites usually look like a line-up of tiny reddish lumps. Like mosquitoes, these insect’s bites are extremely itchy and uncomfortable. Each swollen bump is circular and surrounded by a red halo (ring) While mosquitoes only bite and fly off, fleas prefer to stay stuck on their preferred host for their entire life time, which explains why they bite frequently. If you are allergic or highly sensitive to fleas and flea saliva, you may exhibit more symptoms than normal or feel the usual symptoms more. Some patients have bite marks that are like tiny wounds.

Flea Bites
Flea Bites
Mosquito Bites

If an area is infested with fleas, you will continue to suffer from flea bites and that only makes matters worse. The wounds will begin to develop blisters and angry red rashes.

Flea bites can cause an inflammatory response in the body especially in children. This condition is better known as Papular urticaria and it is chronic. The child or patient may burst into hives practically anywhere on the body, it will ooze out pus like fluid and itch relentlessly. In severe cases, the disease may lead to throat swelling, effectively cutting of supply of air.

Flea bite treatment

Flea bites are notorious for festering if left untreated so when you notice a bite treat immediately. For one, you will reduce your urge to scratch the spot. You see, flea bite is open, after all the insect has to pierce your skin. This is why it is imperative that you treat and try your best not to scratch in order not to open it further.

First, wash the area with water and an antiseptic soap, if it has blistered already, wash carefully to avoid bursting.

After this, place an ice pack on it to reduce swelling and soothe itching. Then buy an antihistamine lotion or cream and apply on the wound. Calamine lotion is known to soothe itches best. If you suspect that it is infected (exuding pus and not responding to treatment) see your doctor. Be sure to check if an internal parasite like tapeworm was transmitted in the course of flea infestation.

In the end, it is best to prevent flea infestation than eradicate. If you think or suspect there might be an infestation, disinfect the house with an insect repellent and administer preventatives to your pets once every month. Read More…

Filed Under: Flea Bites Pictures Tagged With: Mosquito bites vs Flea bites

Eradicate fleas using Vinegar and Dawn

May 25, 2019 By admin

When fleas take residence in your home, there are no tendencies that the insects will leave without a push from you. Fleas will continue to multiply and spread where there’s a host. Eradicating fleas with dawn and vinegar is a proven way to effectively control fleas.

Flea Bites on Leg

It is essential that you exterminate these parasites for the good of your pet and your family. Fortunately, there are a lot of products you can administer to treat your home and pet but, on the downside, most of these products are made with toxic chemicals that may harm your family if applied frequently.

This is why most people prefer home-made treatments that are cheap, effective and safe. Vinegar and Dawn dish soap are common ingredients you probably have lying around in your house, you can make use of them to get rid of fleas in the following ways.

Vinegar bath with Dawn soap

Using vinegar and dawn for a bath is one option. Fill your bath tub with warm or tepid water, add half cup of Dawn of any scent. Soak the pet in the mix, hold him in it for at least five minutes then lather with Dawn from head to tail thoroughly. After the animal is dry, groom him with a flea comb. Buy a flea comb from any pet supply shop, it is a necessary supply that every pet owner must have.

To increase the effectiveness of this routine, add half cup of Vinegar to the warm water. It has a powerful scent but that wears off in time or you add an essential oil to cover the scent and repel fleas.

Water and Vinegar Spray

Get a spray bottle, fill with water and two tablespoons of Vinegar. Use the spray before and after bathing your pet. The spray can be used on bedding, curtains, pillows and furniture. Essential oils repel fleas and they will improve the scent of your spray.

Vinegar and Dawn testing bowl

As the name implies, this technique is used in testing the presence of fleas in a home. All you must do is, fill a bowl with water, add soap and vinegar. Mix to form lather and place next to a light source. Leave overnight, if there are fleas in your home, they’ll be drowned in the water.

Vinegar mixed into Dog water

Use apple cider vinegar for this method. Add a spoonful of vinegar to your pet’s drinking water. However, if your pet hates the taste of vinegar, reduce the quantity but increase the number of times you give it to them. If they still refuse to drink the water, consider giving your dog or cat a vinegar pill.

Dawn for infested furniture

Fleas get dislodged on your furniture or bedding, if you want to get rid of them, make a solution of out of Dawn soap, then use that to wipe the couch. Add Dawn to mop water to clean floors. For carpets, add two drops to your steam cleaner and clean, anymore and you will have way too many suds on your hands. These are some ways you can eradicate fleas using vinegar and dawn.

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Do Fleas Reproduce While Feeding on Human Blood?

May 12, 2019 By admin

Do fleas reproduce while feeding on human blood? Normally, Ctenocephalides felis does not feed on human blood and are known parasites of dogs and cat sometimes rodents. Cat fleas will jump on people when they need a host or if they are not getting enough blood.

However, female cat fleas will not be able to reproduce on humans if they do not take a blood meal for hours. This was something that was put to test in a lab setting and not elsewhere.

Cat Flea

Every flea species has a preferred host. Once they deviate from their choice host, it becomes extremely difficult for them to reproduce or for the females to be fertile.

Can fleas live on human blood?

C. felis that has been given no other choice but to feed on humans can survive on that new diet. They are only able to survive for a maximum 185 days. Also, they need to feed for fifteen minutes every day. If a male feeds for a stretch of ten minutes on a human each day, they will live for seventeen days. A female will live for thirty days.

According to a study, fleas can subsist on human blood for over two months and if it is C.felis they will live longer if dog or cat hair is also in their environment.

How fleas reproduce on human blood

If cat fleas can feed on human blood for fifteen minutes for twelve consecutive days, female fleas can get fertile and lay eggs. Female C. canis will be fertile enough after twelve hours of taking blood from people.

Due to the fact that it is harder for fleas to reproduce on human blood, the number of eggs they can lay is exponentially less. Female cat fleas lay maximum of thirty eggs each day on animal blood but it is exponentially reduced to four eggs after three days on human blood.

Fleas and humans co-existing in an environment

In the end, cat fleas feed on human blood but they do not stay stuck on them as they would attach to animals, rather they feed for few minutes and drop off.

Every flea is adapt to survive in a furry animal and less on a smooth haired human, they have microscopic hairs covering their whole bodies.

People only experience flea bites when they have pets infested with fleas and when fleas break out from their protective cocoons, they attack any mammal available before dropping off in search of a more suitable host.

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Cat Allergic Reactions to Flea Saliva

May 12, 2019 By admin

What are cat allergic reactions to flea saliva? In felines, there are four known sources of allergic reactions, they are; inhalant, food, contact and Fleas. If the cat is allergic to a substance, her immune system will overreact to alien substances or compounds known as antigens or allergens.   

Fleas on a Cat

What does flea allergy mean?

Every person and animal can experience small itching sensations when bitten by a flea. However, cat allergic reactions to flea saliva can be extreme. This is due to the effects of the flea saliva on the cats’ skin. Further, when fleas feed on the cats, they leave behind deposits of saliva. One flea bite is enough to cause severe itching.

How does the allergy affect a cat?

Cats respond to the urge to scratch by constantly chewing or licking the affected spot. This relentless scratching definitely leads to open sores and scabs on the skin and loss of fur which opens the door to another bacterial infection. The parts likely to be affected are the tail and rump because fleas chose to stay on those areas where the animal cannot reach easily to dislodge them.

Proffered treatments for FAD

Several products are designed to tackle the spread of fleas and in extreme cases; you may need to apply more than one. However, these products effectively control fleas strictly as long as they are applied religiously and consistently. Some of them can be applied directly on your cat others are for its environment.

Steroids or Cortisones commonly recognized as corticosteroids can be administered to the infested cat, they are mostly resistant to the numerous side effects of steroids. It offers immediate relief from the allergic reactions from flea saliva. This solution might not augur well with all cats, others respond better to oral medications and long-term injections.

At the same time, to avoid any chances of your cat reacting badly to steroids, it is advisable to administer in small doses and just enough to give the cat a much-needed comfort.

Another method is introducing the small amounts of flea saliva extract to your cat’s body over an extended period. This is so the cat’s immune system can acclimatize to flea saliva with little or no reactions to it in the future.

If the allergies are not brought by flea saliva, these are possible reasons for the itching;

  • Harvest mites
  • Food intolerance
  • Bacterial infections on the skin
  • Insect bites
  • Ear mites
  • Atopy (Pollen and House dust allergy)
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  • Flea bite marks on people
  • Flea Borne Diseases in Pets and Humans
  • Difference between dog fleas and cat fleas?

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Identification of Fleas

May 12, 2019 By admin

Identification of fleas is important to help know what treatment methods to use.

They are known by their Latin name: Ctenocephalides Felis in the order of Siphonaptera.

Fleas Appearance

To start with proper identification of fleas let’s look at their appearance. These tiny parasitic insects appear reddish brown in color, and they grow to about 2.5mm. Their entire bodies are covered with compressed hair which helps them to burrow through their hosts fur, it can be seen with the aid of microscope.

Movement of Fleas

Fleas can jump seven inches into the air with their specialized limbs. Although they are wingless, fleas have strong hind legs with spring-like joints. This allows fleas to travel further.

How Flea Infestation Begins

Parasites need a host to survive. In order to do this, they attach themselves to any animal available. Fleas choose dogs and cats as host animals especially when they roam outside the house. Fully grown fleas looking for a fresh blood meal will jump on them; they will carry these insects into homes and begin the infestation. Once a flea enters a household, it is very difficult to get rid of especially when the species is not really clear. However, those with pets are not the only ones vulnerable to an infestation, any house overrun with rodents is likely to become infested too.

Fleas Search for a Host to Feed On

Infected Flea Bites

Adult fleas emerging from its protective pupae needs a fresh blood meal to survive and so will attack anybody or animal in sight. They will come out when they sense the presence of a mammal through an increase in carbon dioxide content in the air.

Another time a flea searches for a host to subsist on is when its off its original host and into furniture or bedding. Markedly, Fleas which sense that its rodent host is about to be removed from a household once it is trapped will leave it in search of another. The flea can possibly end up attaching themselves to the homeowner’s pets.

How Dangerous are Fleas?

In a statement by CDC, several diseases are transmitted through flea bites and the number has increased between 2004 and 2016. The bites are usually very itchy and painful more so for people who are allergic to the flea saliva and bites.

Fleas are tiny and almost not visible to the naked eyes, they also reproduce at a fast rate which makes it extremely difficult to get rid of them when they infest a house.

Signs of a Flea Ridden House

  • Fecal matter: Fleas tend to leave dirt whenever they infest a home such as their feces which appear like ground black pepper. It can be seen in carpets, mattresses, cushions and rugs.
  • Flea eggs: the only stage that can be seen easily around are the adult fleas, egg, larvae and pupae do not require a blood meal to survive so they remain at their hidden spots until adult stage. They are spread throughout the house when they fall off the adult’s bodies.
  • Animals scratching: when pets are flea infested, they respond to the numerous bites by scratching themselves frequently especially when they lie on their sleeping areas.
  • Bites on people: parasites that get dislodged from their host’s bodies and end up on carpets and mattresses where they bite humans in search of hosts and a blood meal. People experience frequent bites if a house is infested.

Feeding

At the larvae stage, all it needs to survive are debris, adult flea fecal matter and dirt. Pupae stays enclosed in a cocoon and does not feed.

They normally prefer to make various animals its host like mice, squirrel, cats, dogs, wild animals, rats, domestic animals etc.

Reproduction

Female fleas reproduce after taking fresh blood from their host. They lay eggs which fall off into cracks in the flooring, carpets, rugs, furniture, pet bedding even on bare ground. The laid eggs will hatch in two days.

How to Exterminate Fleas and Prevent Them from Infesting a Home

The easiest yet effective way to prevent flea infestation is by cleaning out the environment, getting rid of every flea habitat outdoors with the use of pesticides that can kill fleas. A professional should be contacted to handle the infestation.

Every hole and crack in a home should be sealed completely to prevent rodents that might be flea infested from entering the house. Pets should be groomed properly also to get rid of any parasite in its body.

Fleas carry diseases that they transmit to their hosts after feeding, various diseases like Murine typhus, cat scratch disease and bacterial infections.

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Difference Between Fleas and Bed Bugs

May 12, 2019 By admin

Exterminating bugs once they have invaded a home is a difficult task, the reason being that, they reproduce at a very fast rate and feeding is easy because they depend on human and animal blood to survive for as long as they need.

They get into houses by attaching their tiny sizes to luggage, old furniture, pets roaming outside, clothing and mattresses.

Fleas and bed bugs are very similar in appearance and behavior with few features to tell them apart. These similarities make it next to impossible for people to identify them and exterminate. In order to effectively control and get rid of these parasites, you can identify the following features with the naked eye.

Flea

Features that Differentiate Fleas from Bed Bugs

MOVEMENT

FLEAS: Fleas move by jumping over long distances with their strong legs.

BED BUGS: They are incredibly slow and cannot fly or jump either. They move about with just a crawl.

Bed Bug

HOSTS

FLEAS: These insects prefer to attach and feed on dogs or cats and will only feed on human when the animals are not available.

BED BUGS: they feed on human blood mostly and also will only deviate when no human is around.

APPEARANCE

FLEAS: They have narrow and long bodies that look flattened from the top; they also appear to be reddish brown in color.

BED BUGS: they are large, reddish brown, flat and oval-shaped.

TREATMENT

When looking at fleas and bed bugs these parasites practically live on their hosts and one of the ways to get rid of them is by cleaning wherever you suspect an infestation, it could be the pets, hair or mattresses. It might not remove them entirely, but it will reduce them considerably especially when insecticides are used.

Note that you cannot depend on the bite marks they leave on their hosts to pinpoint which insect it is because every person and animal reacts differently to the bite, they will not look alike.

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Difference Between Dog Fleas and Cat Fleas?

May 12, 2019 By admin

Although dog and cat fleas are of different species, they can only be told apart with the use of a microscope.

Cat fleas known scientifically as ctenocephalides felis can harm humans, dogs and some other animals alike, they are not restricted to cats alone as the name suggests. Actually, most of the flea issues in North America are as a result of the activities of these species as majority of pets are found to suffer from cat flea infestation.  Dog fleas or ctenocephalides canis are rarely seen in North America but they are very common in Europe

Fleas On a Dog

If you or your pet exhibits the following symptoms, it probably means that you’re suffering from flea infestation. They are; redness of the skin, extreme itching, secondary infections. In severe cases your pet might begin to suffer from flea allergy dermatitis. You may be wondering what the difference is between dog fleas and cat fleas.

However, if you want to get rid of fleas completely, contact a pest control expert to find out the best solution to exterminate them from your home and environment, but in the meantime talk to your veterinarian to get the best treatment options available for your pet.  

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Lemon Sprays for Flea Eradication

May 9, 2019 By admin

Those who may look for natural methods for flea infestations wonder about lemon sprays for flea eradication. Fleas are bad news for humans and animals. First, they need blood to survive, but unlike bedbugs, they do not bite and fall off, they have to live on that pet throughout their lifetime. Then, fleas reproduce at a high rate, at least fifty eggs per day. This means that if left untreated, your home can be overrun with the parasites in just a few weeks.

There are several products that which are manufactured to control fleas, however, 80% of these products are made with chemicals, harmful substances that can hurt your pet and family if used frequently. Natural methods are far better and more effective, consider lemon sprays which can kill and repel fleas.

Quick facts about fleas – How the infestation begins

The parasites are not particularly picky about their choice of host. They pick on non-domesticated animals found around your yard like raccoons, possums and squirrels. Naturally, fleas have to reproduce and when they do, the non-sticky eggs falls right on your yard – where your pets play – the eggs develop into larvae, pupae and finally adults poised to jump on the unsuspecting pet. If you never let your pet go outside, but the yard is infested already, fleas may stick to your clothing and still jump on the cat or dog once inside.

Two thousand species have been discovered but the variety commonly found on dogs, cats and homes are cat fleas scientifically known as ctenocephalides felis.  

How to inspect your home and pets for flea presence

Homes: You need a pair of white socks for this, put them on and walk around the entire house, outdoors and shady areas. If fleas are present, you will find them stuck to the bottom of your socks.

Pets: Groom your pet regularly with a flea comb, it a ‘fine tooth comb’. If there are fleas living on your pet, you will see them stuck to the teeth of the flea comb. Next, you may notice your pet scratching consistently as a reaction to flea bites.

Application of Cultural Control Methods

Now, after the inspection, you may have a negative or positive result. Either way, put up a masonry fence covering the whole yard. This should effectively keep the small wild animals away.  Of course, the existent animals such as squirrels cannot be removed with only a fence.

If your house is already surrounded by a fence, ensure that all holes in the wall is sealed shut then cover any other openings in your house, you can start by plugging the vents.

Squirrels are known to thrive in trees, so if your neighbor’s tree has grown into your yard, ask for permission to cut off the offending branches.

Fleas cannot be completely eradicated in an unhygienic environment as confirmed in an article by (CUIL) Cornell University Insect Laboratory “A clean home surpasses any treatment given to the pet” So ensure that you mow the lawn, sweep your porch and mop, get rid of weeds, prune shrubs and trees to give more opening for sun light. Dispose of the piles of leaves and other organic debris properly.

Cedar chips are natural flea repellents so after cleaning scatter the chips around the house especially those areas that you confirmed to be flea infested. If cedar chips are not accessible, you can alternate with penny royal a member of mint species. It is also a flea repellent.

If the search revealed fleas right inside the home, vacuum the rugs, underneath the beds, rugs, carpets and couches at least five times a week. Machine-wash your pets bedding, fleas will not survive inside the heat, immediately transfer to a dryer after washing.

How to make Lemon Spray

Apple Cider Vinegar and Lemon Juice

You may now wonder how to make lemon spray for flea eradication. Lemon sprays are confirmed to be more of a repellent than flea killers. According to an article published by the Canine Journal, it is a natural repellent. If the spray is applied on your pet (check for open sores before spraying) and in the house fleas will steer clear of them.

To prepare, divide the lemon into thin slices and throw into a pot containing twelve ounces of water. Cover it and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for half an hour. Move the pot away from the stove and let the lemon water sit for approximately nine hours. Scoop out the thinly sliced lemons and pour the water/lemon mixture into a spray bottle. Refrigerate for three days.

Others like to use a combination of lemons and apple cider vinegar for lemon spray for flea eradication.

How to apply your spray

After series of research, the ASPCA discovered that some cats, dogs and horse’s skins are photosensitive to lemons, which makes it toxic. This is why you should consult your veterinary doctor to determine if it is safe for you to administer the spray directly on the animal.

Your pet has to be clean and dry and with complete backing from the vet spray your homemade spray on the animal’s coat lightly. Avoid all open areas such as ears, eyes, between the toes and genitals. This is to reduce the irritability. Use a flea comb to spread the lightly sprayed solution on the skin, if the pet begins to exhibit signs of extreme discomfort stop immediately.

Rid your home of fleas

Vacuuming is one of the best choices you can take in the process of removing fleas, this is because the suction should remove every flea, from egg to adult. Spray your lemon solution lightly on carpets, bedding, baseboards, beneath furniture and cracks. Seal the bag containing the dirt and dispose properly preferably far from the home to avoid re-infestation.

Getting rid of fleas is not a onetime process. Maybe your pet has stopped scratching for the meantime but there may still be flea eggs around the house. Keep searching and removing through the aforementioned processes until you are absolutely sure there are no more fleas.

However, if you try all these and get only negative results then consider what CCH (California Health Program) recommends;

Have your vet advice you on the appropriate spot treatment medication and before you apply pesticides, read the instructions written on the label.

Or you consult an expert pest removal company to treat your home with a flea growth disruptor, it will stop the parasites from completing their cycle and allow the company to apply any suitable pyrethroid.

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Filed Under: Get Rid of Fleas Tagged With: Lemon Sprays for Flea Eradication

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