How to eliminate fleas on a cat using wormwood? - briefly
Apply a diluted wormwood tincture evenly over the cat’s fur, avoiding eyes and mucous membranes. Repeat the application every three to four days for two weeks and keep the living area clean.
How to eliminate fleas on a cat using wormwood? - in detail
Wormwood (Artemisia abrotica) contains compounds that are toxic to fleas. When applying it to a cat, follow a protocol that maximizes efficacy while protecting the animal’s health.
Preparation of the treatment
- Obtain dried, pesticide‑grade wormwood leaves.
- Grind the material to a fine powder.
- Mix 1 g of powder with 100 ml of warm water; stir for 10 minutes.
- Filter the infusion through a fine mesh or cheesecloth.
- Allow the liquid to cool to room temperature before use.
Application method
- Conduct a full coat inspection; brush out loose debris and existing flea adults.
- Apply the cooled infusion to the cat’s skin using a spray bottle or a soft cloth, covering the neck, back, tail base, and underbelly. Avoid the eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Massage gently for 30 seconds to ensure penetration into the fur and skin.
- Allow the cat to air‑dry; do not towel‑dry or bathe for at least 4 hours after treatment.
Dosage schedule
- Initial treatment on day 0.
- Repeat application on days 3 and 7.
- Continue weekly applications for 4 weeks, then switch to a maintenance dose of 0.5 g powder per 100 ml infusion every two weeks.
Safety precautions
- Perform a patch test on a small area of skin 24 hours before full application; discontinue if redness or swelling occurs.
- Keep the cat indoors during the treatment period to prevent re‑infestation.
- Store the remaining infusion in a sealed container at 4 °C; discard after 7 days.
- Do not use on pregnant or lactating cats without veterinary approval.
Monitoring and follow‑up
- Count flea adults on the cat’s coat each day for the first week; a reduction of >80 % indicates effective control.
- Inspect the home environment for flea eggs and larvae; treat bedding, carpets, and upholstery with a complementary insecticidal spray approved for indoor use.
- If flea numbers persist after two weeks of treatment, consult a veterinarian for alternative or adjunct therapies.
By adhering to this regimen, wormwood can serve as a natural, flea‑killing agent for felines while minimizing the risk of toxicity. Regular observation and environmental control are essential to achieve lasting eradication.