Fleas are the most common parasites found in your pets. There are many types of fleas but the most common ones are the Dog Fleas or Ctenocephalides canis and the Cat Fleas which are also known as Ctenocephalides felis.
When the flea infestation starts flea life cycle, it is really hard to stop it from spreading to your home as flea eggs drop from your pet to your carpet, bed and they will soon dominate your whole house.
It is very hard to keep you and your pet healthy and free from infestation when fleas are involved. That is why most pet and homeowners search for ways to kill two birds with one stone by killing the cause of infestation and preventing its spread to their homes.
Now, they can do this by using diatomaceous earth – a natural fleas in house control.
Diatomaceous Earth: Fleas’ Demise
When pet owners use Diatomaceous earth, fleas will be controlled and even better, may eventually die. Diatomaceous earth or often times called “DE” or diatomite is a very fine material made out of fossilized planktons and hard-shelled algae. It is often used in filtration, mild abrasive and most is effective as an insecticide due to its fine, flour-like and highly absorbent structure.
Diatomaceous Earth: How Does It Work?
DE works in two ways. First, diatomaceous earths have a very sharp and edgy composition and are very fine which is less than 1 micrometer in size, which would make it very abrasive. If diamond gets ten for their hardness, DE will get eight. When insects that has exoskeleton such as the flea come in contact with the DE, the DE automatically gets stuck in the joints of the insect. As the insect moves, it will start to cut itself because of the DE and ultimately die.
Second, the DE has highly absorbent properties that cause dehydration in things it comes in contact with. A flea when in contact with the DE will have the substance in its joints and exoskeleton and will not only get cut up but also get dried out. Even in minute amount and minute in size it will dry up any surface. Fleas cannot survive without proper hydration given its very small body.
Diatomaceous Earth: What To Buy?
In purchasing a DE make sure to buy the food grade like this one as it is similar to the ones used in storing grains, rice and other agricultural products.
Though it is safe to use and to eat, you must still be cautious in using it. It is dangerous to breathe in the dust from DE so make sure to read the labels and instructions before using.
From outside your home, make sure to spread it around any entry point to your house and the along the foundations. Inside the house make sure to spread it at windows and doorways and especially the corners. It is best to apply DE when you are about to leave to avoid inhalation and when you come back, make sure to vacuum thoroughly. When using diatomaceous earth, fleas will surely regret they chose your pet, your home and you.
DE is very safe and effective. Moreover, it’s a lot safer than flea bombs to get rid of fleas in house.
