How to treat a cat for fleas with a wormwood infusion? - briefly
Steep dried wormwood leaves in boiling water for 10–15 minutes, let the infusion cool, dilute it 1:5 with water, and apply the solution to the cat’s coat while avoiding eyes and mucous membranes, repeating every 7–10 days until fleas are gone. Observe the animal for irritation or toxicity and stop treatment if adverse signs appear.
How to treat a cat for fleas with a wormwood infusion? - in detail
Treating a cat for flea infestation with a wormwood (Artemisia) infusion requires careful preparation, precise dosing, and vigilant observation.
First, obtain high‑quality dried wormwood leaves free from contaminants. Measure 2 g of the herb per 200 ml of water. Bring the water to a rolling boil, add the plant material, and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove the pot from heat, cover, and steep for an additional 15 minutes. Strain the liquid through a fine mesh or cheesecloth, discarding solids. Allow the infusion to cool to room temperature; a temperature of 20–25 °C is safe for topical use.
Before application, perform a patch test. Apply a small amount (approximately 0.5 ml) to a shaved area on the cat’s flank, wait 30 minutes, and watch for redness, swelling, or excessive grooming. If no adverse reaction occurs, proceed with full treatment.
Application steps:
- Bath preparation – Fill a tub or sink with lukewarm water (38–40 °C). Add 100 ml of the cooled infusion per 5 liters of water, mixing thoroughly.
- Immersion – Gently place the cat in the water, ensuring the fur is fully saturated. Keep the cat in the solution for 5–7 minutes; avoid prolonged exposure to prevent skin irritation.
- Rinse – Rinse with clean, lukewarm water to remove residual plant material.
- Drying – Pat the coat dry with a soft towel; avoid vigorous rubbing that could damage the skin.
- Repeat schedule – Perform the treatment once every 5–7 days for three consecutive weeks, then monthly for maintenance during peak flea season.
Safety considerations:
- Wormworm contains thujone, a neurotoxic compound; limit concentration to the specified ratio and never exceed the recommended frequency.
- Do not use on kittens younger than 8 weeks, pregnant or lactating females, or cats with known liver or kidney disease.
- Monitor for signs of toxicity: tremors, excessive salivation, vomiting, or lethargy. Discontinue use immediately and consult a veterinarian if symptoms appear.
- Keep the infusion out of reach of children and other pets.
Complementary measures:
- Vacuum carpets and upholstery daily; discard vacuum bags to eliminate flea eggs and larvae.
- Wash bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water (≥60 °C) weekly.
- Apply a veterinarian‑approved flea collar or oral preventive if infestation persists despite herbal treatment.
Documentation of each treatment (date, dosage, observed reactions) facilitates effective management and provides valuable information for veterinary consultation.