Three Natural Ways To Keep Fleas Off Your Cat
When your cat becomes infested with fleas, the situation can be a nightmare – for both you and your cat. Not only does your cat have to deal with itchy skin, but you have to deal with pesky fleas in your carpet biting your legs. There are many flea repellants on the market that will keep fleas from taking up residence on your cat. But some cats are sensitive to the chemicals these treatments utilize – and some owners don't want to be putting such strong pesticides on their animals' skin. Using one or more of these natural flea-fighters can be a good alternative.
Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth, or DE, is a fine powder made from the exoskeletons of tiny diatoms. As long as you purchase food-grade diatomaceous earth, it will be safe for your cat – but deadly to fleas. At the microscopic level, DE is very sharp. It pokes holes in the coatings of fleas' bodies, so any fleas that jump onto your cat will perish before they're able to replicate and lead to a full-blown infestation.
To apply DE to your cat, first fill a thick sock with the powder. Then, pat the sock over your cat's entire body, being careful to shield the eyes so that the powder does not get into them. (It can be irritating to the eyes). You don't need much DE – just a light coating will do. Repeat this treatment process about every 2 weeks.
Cedar Oil
Cedar chests are used to store clothes because the cedar essential oil repels moths. Cedar oil is also repellant of other insects, including fleas. Purchase some cedar essential oil, and dilute it down by mixing 2 – 3 drops of cedar oil with 10 drops of olive oil. Then, place this mixture in a tiny squeeze bottle or dropper bottle. Once a week, place a single drop on the back of your cat's neck. Make sure it reaches the skin and does not just linger on the hair. The cedar oil will keep fleas from biting and will also give your cat a pleasant, woodsy scent.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Fleas are not a fan of apple cider vinegar's acidity. When you apply this mixture to your cat's coat, it will not only repel fleas, but also mites and the fungus that causes ringworm. Make sure you're using high-quality apple cider vinegar. Simply prepare a mixture of 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar in a cup of water. Dip a paper towel in this mixture, and then wipe it gently across your cat's hair. Repeat the process once a week for best results.
To learn more, contact a company like Kenhaven Animal Hospital.
