TREATING THE SURROUNDINGS

Routine Care
For the environment we recommend steam cleaning carpets and vigilant vacuuming. The pet's bedding should be washed weekly and its areas restricted (do not let it sit on furniture, for example).

Infestations
Infestations can be treated by applying boric acid powder (available at drugstores), 20 Mule Team Borax, or diamataceous earth to carpets and cracks in floors and baseboards. Vacuum frequently (at minimum weekly) and remove the vacuum bag and contents and dispose of it in outdoor garbage or burn the bag.

Serious Infestations
For serious infestations pressure sprays with pyrethium-based insecticides and Precor (Methoprene) or Nylar, an insect growth regulator, may be necessary. These products are sprayed on carpets, floors, furniture and pet bedding as needed. Follow directions carefully.

MORE IDEAS

Another Herbal Approach
Greg Tilford, an herbalist with Apawthecary, recommends herbal cleansing and nutrition for skin problems and flea allergies. Probiotics, digestive enzymes and essential fatty acids (borage oil, flaxseed oil, fish oil, etc.) all help digestive absorption and improve skin quality. These improvements will help discourage fleas. Many commercial sources are available. Probiotics and digestive enzymes aid in food absorption and digestion. Essential fatty acids improve skin and coat quality or health.

This is his formula for an herbal flea rinse:

Triple Punch Herbal Flea Rinse
Cover the following herbs with boiling water and let steep:

1 part Feverfew flowers
1 part Mullein flowers
1 part yarrow flowers
1 part celery seed, freshly ground, or a
couple of drops of sweet orange
3 parts Calendula flowers

Use this as a rinse over the animal's skin.

Allergies
Many problems with fleas are due to an animal's sensitivity to fleas--flea allergies can cause more serious skin conditions. In a future tips column, we will cover flea allergy and tips on treating it.

Resources
Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats by Richard H. Pitcairn, DVM, PhD and Susan Hubble Pitcairn, Rodale Press.
The New Natural Cat by Anitra Frazier, Plume Book.

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