How should flea treatment be diluted? - briefly
Follow the product label’s instructions, mixing the specified amount of concentrate with the recommended volume of water (e.g., one milliliter per liter). Apply the diluted solution evenly to the pet’s coat and surrounding environment as directed.
How should flea treatment be diluted? - in detail
When preparing a flea control solution, follow the manufacturer’s concentration ratio precisely. Measure the product with the calibrated dropper or syringe included in the packaging; do not estimate by eye. Dilute the measured amount in clean, lukewarm water—typically 1 ml of concentrate per 100 ml of water, but verify the label for the exact proportion.
The dilution process should occur in a container that can be sealed, preventing evaporation. Stir the mixture gently until the solution appears uniform; avoid vigorous shaking, which can create foam and reduce efficacy. Use the solution within the time frame indicated on the label, usually no longer than 30 minutes, because active ingredients may degrade when exposed to air.
Apply the diluted solution according to the recommended method:
- Spray: Coat the animal’s coat evenly, avoiding the eyes and mucous membranes. Ensure the surface is damp but not saturated.
- Bath: Add the solution to a bathtub or basin, fully submerge the pet, and massage for the specified duration before rinsing.
- Environmental treatment: Distribute the liquid over carpets, bedding, and cracks where fleas hide, using a pump sprayer calibrated to deliver the correct volume per square foot.
Safety precautions include wearing disposable gloves, keeping the mixture away from children and other animals, and storing any excess solution in a sealed container out of direct sunlight. Dispose of unused concentrate according to local hazardous waste regulations; never pour it down the drain.
If the pet’s weight or size differs from the standard dosing chart, adjust the volume of concentrate proportionally before dilution. For example, a 10‑kg dog requires half the amount prescribed for a 20‑kg animal. Record the exact measurements used for future reference and to maintain consistency across treatments.