How to remove fleas from a cat using folk remedies? - briefly
Apply a diluted apple‑cider‑vinegar spray (one part vinegar to three parts water) to the cat’s coat and use a fine‑toothed flea comb after each application; supplement with a light dusting of food‑grade diatomaceous earth on bedding and carpets, repeating every 48 hours until fleas disappear.
How to remove fleas from a cat using folk remedies? - in detail
Eliminating fleas from a cat with traditional, non‑chemical methods requires a systematic approach that addresses both the animal and its environment.
Begin by isolating the cat in a clean, flea‑free room. Wash all bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks in flooring; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag to prevent re‑infestation.
Apply the following folk treatments, each prepared according to the specified measurements and safety notes:
- Food‑grade diatomaceous earth – Sprinkle a thin layer (≈ 1 g m⁻²) on the cat’s coat, avoiding eyes and mucous membranes. Gently massage, let sit for 5 minutes, then brush out with a fine‑tooth flea comb. Reapply every 48 hours until no fleas are visible.
- Apple‑cider vinegar rinse – Mix 1 part vinegar with 4 parts lukewarm water. Soak a cloth, wipe the cat’s body, focusing on the neck and base of the tail. Do not rinse; the mild acidity deters fleas. Use no more than once daily for three days.
- Neem oil spray – Dilute 5 ml cold‑pressed neem oil in 250 ml distilled water, add a few drops of mild liquid soap as an emulsifier. Transfer to a spray bottle, mist the coat lightly, avoiding the face. Apply every 24 hours for a week.
- Lemon‑salt solution – Grate one organic lemon, combine with 2 tbsp sea salt and 500 ml warm water. Allow to steep for 12 hours, strain, and spray onto the cat’s fur, steering clear of eyes. Use twice weekly.
- Herbal decoction – Simmer equal parts dried lavender, rosemary, and thyme in 1 L water for 15 minutes. Cool, strain, and spray onto bedding and the cat’s coat. Apply every third day.
After each topical application, comb the cat with a fine‑tooth flea comb, discarding captured insects into soapy water. Repeat combing after baths or sprays to remove dead or dislodged fleas.
Maintain a flea‑free habitat by sprinkling a light dusting of diatomaceous earth on carpets and pet areas weekly, washing the cat’s bedding weekly, and performing a thorough vacuuming routine every 48 hours. Regular grooming with a flea comb reduces the chance of resurgence.
Caution: avoid essential oils known to be toxic to felines (e.g., tea tree, pennyroyal). Do not apply any remedy to kittens under eight weeks, pregnant or lactating cats, or animals with skin lesions. If the infestation persists after two weeks of consistent treatment, seek veterinary assistance.