How to wash a cat to get rid of fleas using folk remedies? - briefly
Mix equal parts water and «apple cider vinegar», add a tablespoon of dried rosemary, and gently sponge the cat, letting the solution sit for five minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water. Repeat weekly until fleas disappear, keeping the animal calm and dry afterward.
How to wash a cat to get rid of fleas using folk remedies? - in detail
Fleas infestations demand immediate action; traditional home remedies offer a cost‑effective alternative to chemical treatments. The process begins with preparation of a safe bathing solution and selection of appropriate tools.
Gather the following items: a large basin or sink, warm water (approximately 38 °C), a mild liquid soap, and one or more folk ingredients known for repelling or killing fleas. Commonly used natural agents include «apple cider vinegar», «neem oil», «lemon juice», «rosemary infusion», and «lavender essential oil». Each component should be diluted to avoid skin irritation: for example, add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to one litre of water, or mix one teaspoon of neem oil with a few drops of lavender oil in the soap.
The washing procedure consists of several steps:
- Fill the basin with the prepared solution, ensuring the temperature is comfortable for the animal.
- Gently place the cat in the water, supporting the body to prevent panic.
- Apply the diluted soap mixture, massaging the coat from head to tail while avoiding the eyes and ears.
- Introduce the chosen folk additive, allowing it to linger on the fur for three to five minutes; the mild acidity of lemon juice or the insecticidal properties of neem oil act directly on flea larvae.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean, lukewarm water to remove all residues.
- Pat the animal dry with a soft towel; avoid vigorous rubbing that could damage the skin.
After the bath, comb the coat with a fine‑toothed flea comb to extract remaining insects and eggs. Dispose of collected debris in a sealed bag. Clean the bathing area and any surfaces the cat has contacted, as flea eggs can survive in the environment.
Precautions are essential: avoid using undiluted essential oils, which may cause toxicity; discontinue the procedure if the cat shows signs of stress, excessive salivation, or skin irritation; consult a veterinarian before applying any remedy to kittens younger than eight weeks or to animals with known allergies. Regular repetition of the bath—once a week for two weeks—combined with routine grooming, reduces flea populations without relying on synthetic insecticides.